2 They were all baptized into Moses in the cloud and in the sea.
Dry baptism! Don’t let those who quarrel about the means of baptism, (dunk, sprinkle or pour) read this passage. The Israelites never got wet as they walked on dry ground out of Egypt with water on the right and left. The cloud that separated and guided them never enveloped them. It marked the boundary between them and their enemies. It provided protection and guidance. It helped form their identity as Israelites. It marked the beginning of their history as a people. But there was no water. I want you to think for a few moments about those things that are like the cloud and water in your life. What events, people, and relationships mark the transitions in your walk of faith? Can you put a finger on some right now and recognize how those events separated you from those who did not want the best for you? If that event had not happened, where would you be now if the logical conclusion of those activities had happened? The believing community needs to celebrate those transition points, points of departure from the old death to the new life. I was baptized as an adult in a bathtub. As my head went under the water, my knees and legs exited the water. But the water was not the important part. It merely symbolized a choice I had made in that moment to take a new direction in my faith-walk. I was making a choice to turn from and turn to. I remember going to the altar in Frankfurt Germany when I accepted the call to ministry. It didn’t have to be an altar, but it meant my life was going to take a very different turn. I remember standing at the altar when my bride said “I do.” I remember two births and two baptisms. I remember having hands laid on me by my church elders. Even this blog represents a turning point in my life. I now allow others into my inner world of wrestling with God. Take a few moments and think about your own transitions. Join in sharing those moments by leaving a comment. www.hospchap.blogspot.com. Then click the COMMENTS button and drop a quick note.
The Arnold Journey 