Rest is risky. It’s hard to move away from responsibilities, to give up control, to give yourself a break. Sometimes it feels easier to keep swimming forward, kicking and stretching, never looking up, stealing breaths when you get a chance. Letting go and letting the waters carry you means not knowing the outcome and being open to new possibilities, to trust in the directions God will take you.
The waters of baptism bring both death and new life—daily death to our human failings (and plans!) and new life in our identity as a child of God. Baptism reminds us we can’t do it all ourselves and we need to rely on God, remembering Jesus’ promise: “out of the believer’s heart shall flow rivers of living water” (John 7:38). We don’t provide living water for ourselves; Jesus is our source.
God, remind us to trust in your daily grace and direction and give us courage to let go and seek the life-giving water that only you can give. Amen.
This message is excerpted from the September 1, 2017, Cafe Faith Reflection “Rest and Risk” by Jennifer Hackbarth. All are welcome to attend a Blue Christmas service via Zoom, December 21 at 7 p.m. (CST).
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