“Tara Lee, I baptize you in the name of the Father, and the Son and the Holy Spirit.” 35 years ago today, those words were spoken to my parents, sponsors and an infant me as I was called and claimed through the waters of Baptism. God chose me and told me who I am; a beloved child of God just like God tells you who you are!

It seems fitting that a new journey began today on the anniversary of my Baptism. Through the waters of Baptism, God makes all things new. And today new is springing up all around me; a new house, a new call, a new city, a new church and so much more. Yet in the midst of the new, I know that God walks with me. I know that God continually reminds me and tells me who I am. And that is a promise worth clinging too.
Not just for me but for all of us.

I am reminded of a plaque I received from my advisor at seminary for graduation. The words remind me that everything flows back to those beloved waters of Baptism.

“Tara Lee, You are a baptized Child of God; whatever else you are, remember that you are that; for that is the basis of whatever else you are.”