From the Order for Holy Baptism, the presiding minister recites, “Pour out your Holy Spirit, the power of your living Word, that those who are washed in the waters of baptism may be given new life.”
Baptism is new life. Through water, we are connected to the ultimate Source of All Things. The same Spirit that moved over the waters at the beginning of time is sealed within us and emboldens us with eternal, everlasting love.
What would our world look like if everybody believed they were precious? How much would our collective capacity for love increase if we were able to love ourselves wholeheartedly?
Gently pay attention to the voice you hear when you see yourself. Don’t judge that voice. Don’t get mad at it. Just turn toward it. And offer that voice a gift of encouragement. Kindly whisper precious, honored and loved when you catch a glimpse of your reflection.
This is your identity. This is your legacy. This is Truth. Precious, honored and loved. Now and forever.
This message was excerpted from the August 2018 Cafe article by Emily Anne Carson, “Our identity: precious, honored, loved.” Today we remember John, apostle and evangelist.
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