The Gift of Baptism

We often repeat the sentiment that good things come in small packages. And often this is the case: engagement rings, car titles, house deeds, bonuses from work. However, when it comes to matters of faith, we are more often driven to the ostentatious and outward, such as emotional appeals and heart wrenching stories. We demand to see the waters of the Red Sea part and the walls of Jericho come tumbling down. We want what is new and what is now, what makes us feel our faith.

But most often God does not choose to work in that way. Consider this quote from Martin Luther on God’s thoughts about baptism: “I [i.e., God] have given you baptism as a gift for the forgiveness of sins, and preach to you unceasingly by word of mouth concerning this treasure, sealing it with the Sacrament of my body and blood, so that you need never doubt. True, it seems little and insignificant that by the washing of water, the Word, and the Sacrament this should all be effected. But don't let your eyes deceive you.” Baptism is not a great outward show. It is a quiet work of God.

What does this seemingly insignificant treasure do for us? The words of Titus 3:5b-7 reveal the wealth of its treasure stores: He saved us through the washing of rebirth and the renewal by the Holy Spirit, whom he poured out on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Savior, so that, having been justified by his grace, we might become heirs in keeping with the hope of eternal life.

Baptism is not some simplistic little ritual of an outward expression of faith. Baptism is a gift from God through which He provides salvation. God drowns the Old Adam so that a new person may arise. He washes away the stain and stink of guilt and shame to make us acceptable in His sight. He assures us not only that we are His but that eternal life with Him awaits us. Don’t be deceived. There is great power in this humanly little and insignificant act. Live each day in the strength of His baptismal grace.

Blessings in your new year,

Frank Van Brocklin Principal and Staff Minister

In the week ahead at Immanuel Lutheran School:

❖ Friday, January 7 Basketball - Home vs. St. Peter, Schofield - 5:00 PM

❖ Tuesday, January 11 End of Second Quarter

❖ Friday, January 14 Accelerated Reader Ice Skating Field Trip

❖ Friday, January 14 Basketball - Away vs. Trinity, Marshfield - 5:00 PM