Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary

By Rob Bruendl, Course of Study Student, Dolores United Methodist Church, Dolores, Colorado

Jesus' Baptism by John. Chapel of the Unnamed Faithful. Photo by Al Caldwell.

REAFFIRMATION OF FAITH

Remember your baptism and be thankful. Amen. The Holy Spirit work within you, that having been born through water and the Spirit, you may live as faithful disciples of Jesus Christ.

I remember my baptism, and I am thankful. Amen.

Wade in the Water Children... Read: Luke 3:15-17, 21-22

I was blessed with a High School choir director who would not let us take short cuts. He would not let us sing "fluff" songs. Our concerts were filled with major vocal pieces that ranged from "A Mighty Fortress is Our God" in eight parts to "All Breathing Life" that made you wonder where that next breath would come from. But what really made his eyes light up was when he challenged us with an African American Spiritual. Just imagine seventy white, suburban, pampered, teenagers being asked to become part of the culture of slavery in the 18th & 19th centuries. Perhaps we did not quite get there, but it wasn't for the lack of Mr. Stevenson's effort. He immersed us in the words and the melodies. He baptized us with the odd language and deep emotions that form the foundation on which the African American Spirituals rest.

As we formally reaffirm our baptisms during this time we call Lent, the me that is the pastor says the words as they are written in our Book of Worship. "Remember your Baptism and be thankful." But what is written on my soul, thanks to Mr. Stevenson is:

"Wade in the water...wade in the water, children.
Wade in the water...God's a gonna trouble the water.
Look over yonder and what do I see?...The Holy Ghost a comin on me."