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(Matthew 28:18) "Jesus, undeterred, went right ahead and gave his charge: “God authorized and commanded me to commission you: Go out and train everyone you meet, far and near, in this way of life, marking them by baptism in the threefold name: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Then instruct them in the practice of all I have commanded you. I’ll be with you as you do this, day after day after day, right up to the end of the age.”

I've been asked (a lot) about baptism lately, so I'll try to keep this simple (and forgive me for the repetition). Nicander of Colophon [a Greek poet, physician, and grammarian] wrote that to make a pickle, the vegetable should first be 'dipped' (bapto) into boiling water, then 'baptised' (baptizo), kept in a vinegar and spice solution.

As we all know, if a cucumber is placed in a pickling solution and left, it will become a gherkin. But if it keeps jumping out whenever it feels like it, it will remain a cucumber—albeit one smelling of vinegar and spices!

The longer we walk with Jesus, the more we learn that needing His help is a constant and daily requirement. We're not called to be dipped or have an 'occasional' shower in Christ Jesus. We’re called to ‘remain’ in Him (John 15:4)—in His presence, in a very close, loving, and intimate relationship. One where everyone we come across will know that we have been with Jesus. (Acts 4:13) Truly baptized!

GOD, who created all our hearts, says, “Come to Me, my dear Child, and I will show you how to break free and live! Do your part and trust in Me enough to honour Me.” 

Heavenly Father, giver of life and health: Comfort and relieve those who are sick amongst us—Betty, Maria, Lorenzo, Matteo, Romeo, Sebastian, Nathaniel, Amy, Franca, Daniela, Kristina, Paul, Roger, Alastair, Ian, Alex, Alexander, Lynette, James, Keiron, Samantha, Jay, Liliana, Maria, Susanna, and those you bring to our minds right now… Please grant your healing power to those who minister to all the sick among us so they may be strengthened in their weakness and have confidence in your loving care. We pray this through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen