Remembrance of Baptism

We remember the beginning, when the breath of God 

moved over the waters of the deep 

to call forth new life - 

something new born out of nothing at all. 

When Moses and God’s people 

were trapped and in danger, 

God pulled apart the Red Sea, 

making a new way to safety and life. 

When Jesus came to be baptized 

in the waters of the Jordan River, 

God’s voice broke through the clouds 

to recognize him with joy: My Child, My Delight!

Your baptism is like these sacred stories. 

God’s love is still parting seas and tearing open skies 

with love that forms you and finds you, 

rejoicing in who and whose you are!

This is the current of God’s grace, 

the healing power of mercy that never quits. 

Before you could choose for yourself or agree, 

Jesus claimed you with love that lasts forever.

Your baptism is sturdy and strong, 

clear about God’s love for you, 

aflame and shining with the truth about you 

even when you aren’t so sure. 

These promises are yours, Beloved. 

And they also fill the whole world, 

words and water that become love 

   poured out and raining down. 

Thanks be to God! Amen.

This litany is comprised of selections from my picture book “We Remember Your Baptism” (Beaming Books, 2026).