The Water’s Fine

He was absolutely adorable, shiny black hair and chubby cheeks the perfect foil for his 3-year-old giggle. He ran and climbed, slipping in and out of his parents’ not-fast-enough grips. Dressed all in white, because today he was going to be baptized, he exuded joy and innocence and Life.

His parents and godparents, aunts and uncles all smiled while he explained what would happen: the priest would pour water and he would get a candle and everyone would clap. Afterwards there would be a party with cake and presents. It was a very big day and he couldn’t wait. Miraculously, even as he ran and jumped and climbed, his white outfit remained spotless.

Finally everything was ready and the family moved into the church, gathering around the font. He even managed to stand still, caught by the sacredness of the moment. Then the priest came in asking, “Is everyone ready?”

That beautiful little cherub took one look at the priest and opened his mouth, screaming, “No! Don’t let him touch me! No! I don’t want to be baptized!” Stunned faces were reflected in the waters of the font. No one quite knew what to do. Until the priest started to laugh. Relief cleared the heavy air. The little boy looked at the loving, laughing faces and his joy returned. Maybe it would be okay, after all. The promise of cake and presents proved a powerful enticement. “I baptize you in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.” Congratulations, sweet Child of God.

How often do we run with excitement toward the promises of God, only to freeze at the threshold of the enormity of God’s Love? Step on in, the water’s fine and the promises are real; the embrace of the community will hold you up, sweet Child of God.