Children’s Message--Sunday, January 11, 2009

“I like your haircut! It’s a whole new you!”
“I’ve finally got over that sinus infection. I feel like a new person!”
“She’s not in elementary school anymore—she’s a middle schooler now. It’s a whole new start!”

It is funny how things that seem little can change the way we think about ourselves. Maybe something about us looks different. . . maybe we feel different. . . maybe we have moved to someplace different. Even though almost everything else about us has stayed the same, things that seem little can make a big difference.

Today is a day when we are thinking of baptism. We all had the privilege of being a part of Jacob’s baptism. Our scripture today, and your Sunday school lesson in the coming weeks will be focused on the baptism of Jesus.
Baptism is one of those things where things seem like they are pretty much the same, but there is a wonderful newness. I like this definition of baptism: “Baptism is the sign of new life through Jesus Christ.” God has claimed us all as God’s own—but when we come to the font—whether we are one month old, one year old or one hundred years old, we( or our parents) answer yes to God. “You’re right God—I am yours. My child is yours. Please, I would like that new life through Jesus Christ.” And that makes a big difference.

The thing is, it doesn’t only make a big difference the one being baptized—it makes a difference to all of us. It is a special day for Jacob and his parents. They have made promises—but so have all of you! those of you who are littler, you might be in Qabats with Jacob some day. Bigger kids—you might just end up a teen helper or a Camp Cory counselor for Jacob some day. Do you all think that you can help Jacob (and all the other children’s whose baptisms you take part in) to know and follow Christ?

A new you. . . a new feeling. . . a new start! Baptism brings us new life in Jesus Christ! Thanks be to God!

Let’s pray: Loving God
We thank you for the new life you offer us
In Jesus Christ.
Help us to remember and celebrate
The promises we make.
Amen.