This is how God showed his love among us: He sent his one and only Son into the world that we might live through him. This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins.

— 1 John 4:9-10

James and Tyesha stand at the front of the church sanctuary with their daughters, Brooklyn and Layla, who gaze up at their baby brother, Hakeem, cradled in their father’s arms. Brooklyn stands on tiptoe to peer into the water of the baptismal font; then her eyes look up to meet mine. She is captivated by the mystery, the ritual, and the weight of the promises on this day.

I address the congregation: “If any family would like to join Brooklyn, Layla, James, and Tyesha as we baptize baby Hakeem, you are invited to come forward.” Expecting a few grandparents to join us, I am stunned when the whole congregation steps forward, surrounding them in love.

Together we listen to God’s promises. James and Tyesha make vows, and the congregation promises to stand with Hakeem in Christian community. Then come the words of baptism: “For you, Hakeem, Jesus Christ came into the world; for you, he died; for you, he conquered death. . . . We love because God first loved us. Hakeem Elzy, I baptize you in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.”

Hakeem, a child of God, is part of God’s family. And because of Jesus you have the right to be part of God’s family too (John 1:12-13).

Loving God, thank you for making us part of your family through Jesus Christ. Help us to share your gracious love with others faithfully each day. Amen.