Trinity Pulpit

Baptism: God’s Gift

Tenth Sunday after Trinity

July 27, 2008

Guest Pastor: Martin Keller

On the Occasion of his Granddaughter’s Baptism

Synopsis ►

It is an honor to preach in this historic church which nurtured the Lutheran community over many years. But the greatest honor in preaching here on this day is that this is an historic occasion: the baptism of Emily Juliet. Emily’s parents, Paul and Megan, are following Christ’s command to all believers: to bring all—especially the little children—to be baptized into Him. Who would not want the words and promises of Baptism into Christ? The forgiveness of sins, rescue from death and the devil, and eternal life. The devil, the world and others will ask, “How can water do such great things?” It is not just the water, but the Word of God in and with the water. With the Word, it is a life-giving water. It is God who is rescuing us, justifying us, adopting us—all done in Holy Baptism.

It is good to eagerly desire this gift of baptism for your daughter, Emily. In just a few minutes, she will have her name written in the Book of Life in Heaven. Baptism gives a new birth, a heavenly birth. Her mother gave birth to her once, of flesh; here she will receive a new birth, a birth in Christ.

It is well that the old baptismal font is placed at the entrance of this church sanctuary. For we walk through the baptismal waters to enter the Body of Christ. Emily and all the other children in this congregation are the next generation in the line of children who will know this place to be the House of God, where the love of Christ is demonstrated; and by the power of the Holy Spirit they will confess that Jesus is Lord.

Scriptures for the Day ►

Old Testament—Jeremiah 8:4-12

Epistle—1 Corinthians 12:1-11

Gospel—St. Luke 19:41-48

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