“Baptism” Fraternities, Clubs, Sororities and Religions often have initiatory rites and/or ceremonies. Some are secret, known only to the members. Some are public, know to all. Baptism is a symbolic action that is designed to be public. Followers of Jesus are not supposed to be “secret disciples.” God intended believers to be salt and light. We are saved to shine. No one lights a candle only to hide it under a basket. As Baptists, we practice what is referred to as “believer’s baptism.” That means we baptize people who have made the choice on their own to follow Jesus. As a church we are simply facilitating a way for them to make their commitment to Christ known. For thousands of years, baptism symbolized two things; 1) cleansing and 2) a new direction. John the Baptist called for repentance, for a change of mind about God’s reign and how to be a part of it. The outward symbol of that inward change was baptism. This coming Sunday morning we’ll be baptizing some followers of Jesus. They have made this decision on their own. They want you to know that they have received Jesus by faith and want to walk in His ways. Baptism is a commitment point. It is a milestone. It is a symbol of commitment to new priorities and practices. If you have been baptized, you’ll be reminded what you committed to. If you are a believer and you have not been baptized, you’ll be reminded what you should do. And, if you are not a believer, you’ll be reminded of what is available to you through the loving provision of God in Christ Jesus.