Fresh Jesus

As I shared in Sunday’s sermon, the new year can be something of a mixed bag. On the one hand, there are the impulses toward, “new year, new you!” On the other hand, we find ourselves literally in the bleak midwinter. We’re in the middle of a season, a school year, a period of longer nights than days. It can be hard to turn over a new leaf when we feel more like hibernating.

Still, as one of my commentaries reminded me this morning, “The season of Epiphany [invites us to seek] a fresh portrayal of the one the church knows as its Christ.” Fresh Jesus! What an image. I’m sure he’d have loved some new threads and sandals as he began his ministry.

But, of course, that’s not the freshness implied. In this season of beginnings and sameness, we are asked to experience Christ “again for the first time.” Can we imagine an encounter so revitalizing that it might feel something like emerging from a river, drenched in the waters of baptism?

We won’t be leaving soaked, but on Sunday, we will have the chance to reaffirm our baptismal vows (and get a little wet). As we hear the story of Jesus’s baptism, which launched his public ministry, we’ll have the opportunity to refresh our own spirits and commitments. We’ll also welcome several new members into our congregation, an inspiring beginning for all of us.

I hope you’ll join in, whether online or in the sanctuary, as we mark this important occasion. And wherever we are, may Christ show up afresh in our midst as we begin this new year.

Pastor Jen