Still the waters run...

How calm the waters of the Jordan to bring about such a climatic metamorphosis in each of our lives?  We were changed forever by that simple act of courage and humility.  So, let this Easter season be one of rebirth and renewal - being reborn into a world still largely in its infancy and renewed by Christ’s own actions during His baptism.  I am reminded by my own experiences and of how I felt during this time.  It was a journey into rediscovering my faith and how I could now impact my community and in a larger text, the world as well. 

I remember the sights and sounds that evening and the way the room felt and the aromas from the incense burning bright.  The feeling of serenity as the darkness became light.  These were events that altered my perception of reality and began a change in my perspective on true charity and grace.

It also brought to mind the tremendous sacrifices and pain that Jesus went through on His way to His resurrection.  The calculated way in which He examined His life and in the way He scripted His death should be a lesson to us all.  He wanted to exit this world the same as He had entered it, as a man, true and undeniable.

It is a false statement to make that we are sinless at the end of our days.  It is self-righteous to think of ourselves as above reproach or as having the right to forgiveness.  What God gives us is humility, grace and truth.  Truth in the way we have conducted ourselves and to approach Him as a sinner, first and foremost.  Remember, it is through admittance of such sin that we are brought face to face with Christ and in the eternity He has prepared.  All the elements are in place if we would just allow the stream to overtake us.

Water, in all its true form, is a simple equation for scientists to solve.  But God puts complexity in the simple things of life.  It serves many things – redemption, thirst, hunger, salvation.  We still do not know of all the healing properties it possesses but are moved by faith to believe in the miracle of life that it symbolizes.  Truth is not found in fiction and let us not debate what He has given to us.  Just learn to accept that some things are best left unsaid and, with Jesus’ help, life’s problems will be met with utmost haste.

In the calmness can be turbulence and in the wake can be found tranquility.  When you drop a pebble in the water, it sends ripples outward, away from the shore but comes back as a gentle eddy.  We must allow ourselves to be constantly nourished by flood, fury and fire.  It is these trials that lead us to our final destination.

Use Easter as a time to reflect on our lives and how we have impacted others.  Rise up, begin again our charity, humility and love for all people.  Let our actions speak louder than our words.  Let the rush of water overflow your generosity.  Live life as it was intended to be lived, as Jesus taught us time and time again.  Still the waters run, deep and ever-flowing, and for our brief time here on Earth, allow it to sustain us all.

Have a wonderful and quiet season.  May all your troubles seem small and may the graces of God embellish every area of your life.  And may you feel the gentle breath of the Holy Spirit.  Peace and harmony be with you, always.