https://www.facebook.com/groups/muchgrace/
(Matthew 11:15) [Jesus speaking] "He who has ears to hear, let him hear."
Part 3: WE MAY LET GO... BUT GOD NEVER WILL — 8. Baptism (public washing/mark of union with Christ, cleansing from sin, and entry into the church)
A long time ago, I was lost - mentally, physically (and for sure spiritually)! I went for a long walk and somehow ended up in a Church. Apparently, I had arrived for the inauguration of a new priest, and this was his very first Sunday at the Church.
I remember him standing and staring at the congregation for a long time, until he finally said, "Good morning, everyone. Before we commence the service, can I ask you a couple of questions?" From the collective reaction of those sitting around me, this form of conversational dialogue was not normal - no one spoke.
Unperturbed, he continued, "Why did you all dip your fingers in the font outside the main door and make the sign of the cross as you entered the church?" You could have heard a pin drop - no one answered.
Showing no sign of discomfort, he smiled wryly and said, "We make the sign of the cross to profess our faith in the Trinity - Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, and to acknowledge the saving work of Jesus Christ on the cross. It's a symbolic act of devotion, a reminder of our baptism and dedication to Christ Jesus. If you don't understand this, then come and ask me. But, please don't do this just because everyone else is!"
He paused, then, leaning forward, he spoke more softly: "Baptism is not merely something that happened to us long ago. When you touch the font and make the sign of the cross, you are reminding yourself that you were washed and claimed by Christ — buried with him and raised to new life. It is a public 'yes' to living under his love and a promise to let Him turn you away from what enslaves you. If that connection feels distant, come and talk to me after the service; I would love to walk with you through it."
The silence was deafening. You could have heard a pin drop! He then went on ... "Can I also ask why you genuflected as you entered your pew?" Nothing. No sound. Not even a ripple in the air ...!
I remember him shaking his head as he then went on, "We bend one knee to the ground, as a sign of reverence and adoration, particularly to the presence of Jesus Christ in the Eucharist..." He turned then and pointed towards the tabernacle on the altar. After a few seconds, he turned back to us all and, with his head still bowed, continued, "... genuflection is also a way to express humility, service, and love towards God. Once again, if you don't understand this, then come and ask me. Please don't do this just because everyone else is!"
+++
Let’s pray. "Heavenly Father, like yesterday's message, I read this, and my heart confirms that I need forgiveness for my lack of reverence and all the times that I don't allow the Holy Spirit to take over my life. Please renew me in Christ. I want (I choose) to wholly trust Jesus as my Saviour and Lord." Amen!
+++
URGENT PRAYER REQUESTS (Please keep checking as more are being added almost daily)