We are in a series of scriptures and sermons under the theme, “Who is calling you?,” that will take us to Lent.  This is the Baptism of the Lord Sunday when we not only review the story of the baptism of Jesus, but we take opportunity to remember our own baptism and rehearse it in several ways.  We have baptized many children in the past year, and we are often delighted with those infants and their baptisms.  Yet those words and voice of God in baptism follow us as we grow up and through our adulthood.  But do we see ourselves in the midst of our adult lives as having the voice of God in the waters of baptism for us?  Much as the words of our scripture today (Isaiah 43.1-7) are from God claiming God’s people, no matter where they are, with love and honor, so the waters of baptism flow through the center of our lives, reminding us that we are worthy, loved, named, and claimed by God.  Recalling our baptism is a way to recall God’s lasting love for us. 

(NOTE: Due to a winter storm with snow and ice a few days ago, we are having only the late service today rather than the two services we normally have.  Reflecting the importance of the Word, the video begins with the scripture, but once it starts you can scroll back to the beginning of the service if you want.  The entire service is videoed.)