I Forgive you

A precious, little baby girl was baptized in our church today. Surrounded by parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, and two very proud new "big" brothers, she was quietly taking in the sacrament, making a sound only when blessed and washed clean with the water.  As members of the church, we are charged with seeing to the religious up-bringing of any child receiving baptism in our sanctuary. In essence, we are ALL the God-parents.

My first child received his baptism at my husband's former Presbyterian run prep-school, by the headmaster, who was an ordained minister.  It was such a special day, with warm weather, family, and God's presence in our midst at the outdoor ceremony. 
Our youngest's baptism was more traditional, performed in the church we still belong to, where she screamed through much of the liturgy and blessing, prompting some to suggest she join the choir and "sing" with me.  Today's celebration of baptism made me remember these blessed days fondly.
It also made me contemplate the concept of love and forgiveness.  We are all human. We all make mistakes.  It is much too easy to succumb to being judge and jury, or to indulge ourselves in the presumption that it is even our job or right to judge others, especially if we condemn others more harshly than ourselves in being accountable for our own wrong-doing.

Baptism washes away the sins of the flesh, leaving our souls, and hearts open to hearing God, and having a life that reflects the love He has for us...and the best He created in us. 
I know this. I have taught this to both my children and to those I have instructed in Sunday school. Unfortunately, we forget we need reminding of this, to reaffirm the promise regularly, and more importantly, to apply it to our lives on a daily basis.
I believe in my baptism, and because I am blessed as a child of God, I believe in second chances, in forgiveness, and in new life.  God has given us an avenue to move forward from heartache, failure, and sin. By this I am not only blessed, but grateful.
Life is too short to hold onto dark moments or memories.  My choice is to say "I forgive you".
A warm country hug to all,
Lisa <3