There is something significantly powerful about baptism. It is an outward expression of faith in Christ. Baptism is an awesome experience, marking an extraordinary moment in life.
Deep Breath.
Hold your breath.
The water runs over you wildly.
Arise as joy floods your heart.
What is Baptism? Baptism is an opportunity to declare your confession and commitment to believing that Jesus Christ died and rose again, that He is Lord and Savior. Baptism is a reflection of Christ’s sacrifice as the one being baptized is submerged under water representing death, and then arises out of the water, symbolizing new life.
Romans 6:4 “We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life.”
I was baptized in the summer of 1997 at Crossroads Church. I still remember dressing into a white gown and then stepping into the water. I confessed Jesus as Lord and Savior, I died to my flesh, and I made a commitment to live a new life. Being baptized was an act of obedience and an honor. It didn’t mean that I was never going to mess up or sin, but it has served as a reminder of my love and commitment to follow Christ.
2 Corinthians 5:17 “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!”
I am a new creation in Christ!
My church has really impressed me over the years. I am proud to call them my family, which is why I am dedicating a series to talking about them! One thing they have always prioritized is baptism. They love baptizing people and they love to celebrate with those that have made the choice to be baptized. Baptism is available during every service, and the church has a tank of water to the left of the stage where it can be visible to all. I have always admired Crossroads’ enthusiasm of baptism.
A few times throughout the year our Pastor shares a brief message and then encourages people who desire to get baptized to walk to the front of the church and get baptized in one of the four pools set up, in addition to the one that is always available. The worship band starts up and people head to the front. Those that come forward are greeted by a volunteer who holds their belongings and then they go right into the water. If anyone is wearing something that could become transparent in the water they are gifted a darker shirt to wear that says “All In!” After the baptism they are given a towel or two along with a trash bag to place in their car to protect the seat. Our Pastor covers all the basis, loving on people extravagantly that they may know God more!
I always get choked up during a weekend service when people are being baptized. Tears flow from my cheeks especially when a child is baptizing their parent or when an elderly person makes that bold commitment to get into the water or when a husband wraps his arms around his wife after baptizing her.
Recently, the Pastor gave one of those shorter sermons and invited people to be baptized. I noticed two people at a time were getting in the pools. Time and time again a husband and wife would enter the water together, being baptized at the same time. My heart felt immense compassion and joy for them as they made such a powerful commitment, their lives and their marriage forever changed.
This weekend, Saturday August 31 and Sunday September 1st Crossroads Church will be having another Baptism Service. If you are in the area you should definitely consider coming. Or if you can, watch it online! Just go to the link below!
WATCH ONLINE!
You will be moved as you celebrate with people as they claim Jesus Christ as their personal Lord and Savior and commit to getting baptized.
This article is part of a series on The Church:
