The Joys of Baptism

This month, I made a little road trip with my parents to celebrate my second Goddaughter’s baptism. In doing so, I was reminded in many ways that the sacraments are tangible signs of God’s love. In this article, I will list examples that I have witnessed and experienced by means of the sacrament of Baptism.

One way we experience God’s love through Baptism is by a child becoming a child of God. This goes hand in hand with Baptism wiping away all original sin. As Catholics, we all know the story of the fall of Adam and Eve. As part of the human race, their fall affects us, too. But through the efficacious and miraculous sacrament of Baptism, we once again become heirs to the kingdom of God. Seeing my Goddaughter become God’s daughter was a true joy I will never forget. How beautiful are God’s grace and the wonders of His mercy!

Another example of God’s love was my Goddaughter receiving the gift of the Holy Spirit. I also was inspired by the Holy Spirit and was given His special graces to carry out the works God has specifically called me to do as a Godmother. I pray that every day she may grow into the saintly woman God calls her to be. I too pray that I may be her loving and faithful Godmother, always guiding her toward God and making sure she receives all her sacraments. Lastly, I pray that she may surrender to God’s amazing plan for her life and trust in Him all her days.

Probably in a more secular sense, this baptism was a wonderful family gathering with much joy, pictures, and hugs to go around. These memories are wonderful and will last longer than a lifetime.

Experiencing this baptism reminds me of my first Goddaughter. I remember when she was a newborn in the hospital. I silently prayed for her while holding her in my arms. Then when my sister chose me to be the Godmother, I was overjoyed more than words can express. But of course, I knew with any type of motherhood comes indeed a great responsibility.

Now even though the responsibility is doubled, praying for them every day and keeping a close eye on them, the graces are also doubled. And of course, the joy that comes from being a Godmother cannot be forgotten. Personally, I like to think of the Fulton Sheen quote, “Every woman in the world was made to be a mother either physically or spiritually.” And in my case, I hope, by the grace of God, I can be both!

Driving back home with my family, filled with good memories and with a new purpose that lies ahead, I am ultimately reminded how all roads lead to Christ. So I think of His own baptism in Sacred Scripture,. indeed a glorious, beautiful, and great reminder of the power of God:

“Then Jesus came from Galilee to John at the Jordan to be baptized by him. John tried to prevent him, saying, ‘I need to be baptized by you, and yet you are coming to me?’ Jesus said to him in reply, ‘Allow it now, for thus it is fitting for us to fulfill all righteousness.’ Then he allowed him. After Jesus was baptized, he came up from the water and behold, the heavens were opened (for him), and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove (and) coming upon him. And a voice came from the heavens, saying, ‘This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased.’” Matthew 3:13-17

As I have shared my own personal story and reflections, my only hope is for you reader to reflect back on your own Baptismal promises. I have listed them below to remind you of the Faith. This beautiful truth is what we believe as Catholics.

1. Do you reject Satan?
2. I do.
3. And all his works?
4. I do.
5. And all his empty promises?
6. I do.
7. Do you believe in God, the Father Almighty, creator of heaven and earth?
8. I do.
9. Do you believe in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord, who was born of the Virgin Mary was crucified, died, and was buried, rose from the dead, and is now seated at the right hand of the Father?
10. I do.
11. Do you believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy Catholic church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and life everlasting?
12. I do.
13. God, the all-powerful Father of our Lord Jesus Christ has given us a new birth by water and the Holy Spirit, and forgiven all our sins. May he also keep us faithful to our Lord Jesus Christ for ever and ever.
14. Amen.

So, I encourage you to take a moment every morning to dedicate yourself to Christ. You will find so much more meaning and joy in your life if you do. Remember, too, how Christ never forces His love. Rather, He always has His hands outstretched on the cross ready for an embrace of mercy and eternal peace.