On Sunday I baptized twins. What a joy it was to participate in bringing new life through the waters of baptism. As a visible reminder of the reality of what happens in baptism we give candles to the one who is baptized. We encourage the families to light these candles every year on the baptismal anniversary.
The candle reminds the family of the biblical truth that Jesus is the light of the world. In Him there is no darkness.
We also celebrate the truth that at our baptism Jesus sets us apart to live our lives as light-bearers. Although humbled by this reality, we rejoice that God chooses us to carry His light. From the moment that faith is delivered to us, by grace, we are given our life purpose.
On the eve of this MLK day, when we celebrate the courageous leadership of a man who "had a dream." I marvel at how many people don't have dreams! I am stunned at how many people have such small, self-focused, self-serving dreams. (Make it a point to ask someone what their dream is sometime.)
Make no mistake, God encourages dreaming. He establishes the dream at our baptism. Although that dream sometimes get hidden under the "basket," a little reminder like a baptismal candle can take us back to His intended purpose for us. We are Light-of-the-world-bearers! Wow!
Jesus says:
"You are the light of the world-like a city on a hilltop that cannot be hidden. No one lights a lamp then puts it under a basket. Instead, a lamp is placed on a stand, where it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise your Heavenly Father." Matthew 5:14-16
Can you think of a greater purpose? Is there a bigger dream? How does your dream stack up?
