Mark 1:4 - Baptisms Began My Journey (Bible Journal)
"This messenger was John the Baptist. He was in the wilderness and preached that people should be baptized to show that they had repented of their sins and turned to God to be forgiven (Mark 1:4 NLT)."
I was baptized as a baby in a Catholic church, then once again by choice as a grown up in a Baptist church. I am grateful for both experiences, and I enjoy reflecting on both. I may not personally remember my infant baptism, but I can look at pictures and think about what the priest said about me based on what I heard at other infant baptisms I attended when I was old enough to remember. For my grown up baptism, I remember committing my life to Jesus before the unforgettable sensation of being fullly dunked in water by my pastor while still wearing a muscle shirt and shorts. The biggest thing I realize now, is while these public declarations of the commitment to be raised as a Christian and the grown up commitment to continue that life by choice are great, the relationship I grow with God and the work I do with and for Him post baptism is even greater. I think this is one of the things Isaiah meant when he said “Look, I am sending my messenger ahead of you, and he will prepare your way (Mark 1:2)."
Thank You Lord for not only my baptisms, but for the perspectives and connections to Scripture You are giving me from them. Please help me to continue to grow in my walk and commitment with You. In Jesus' name I pray, Amen.