There is something really special about watching adults receive the Sacrament of Baptism at the Easter Vigil.
This year was the first time I oversaw RCIA at the parish where I work. During the Litany of Saints, I had tears running down my face as I witnessed these adult women waiting to be baptized, for the old life to be washed away and the new life of grace to rush upon them. The radiance of joy on their faces, the way they confidently tipped their head into the baptismal font was a beautiful thing to behold.
For these women and all who approach the waters of Baptism, the words today from Saint Paul are real and personal: "The old things have passed away; behold, new things have come" (2 Corinthians 5:17).
For all of us who have passed through the waters of Baptism, we have become a new creation in Christ. We become a chosen, called, and beloved daughter of God. Original Sin dies inside of us so grace can be born and help us spiritually grow and thrive. The old passes away, and the newness comes.
Isn't that each of our own personal stories too? A constant dying and rising of old and new that hopefully helps us become more fully who Jesus created us to be. The Christian life is a movement of dying and rising, of old and new.
Are there old things in your life, your heart that need to pass away? Do some things need to die so the new things can come to bear fruit and grow grace in you?
Lean into that story that is unfolding through your own life. Ask the Holy Spirit what needs to die so that the newness can come and grow more deeply.
Re-read your baptismal vows and maybe even renew them today?
Patty Breen is a full-time lay minister who finds joy in running, strong cups of coffee, and all things Ignatian spirituality. A Midwestern gal from the mitten state, she is constantly learning to find grace in all things. She is passionate about ministry, writing, a great lipstick color, and smiling is her favorite. Find out more about her here.
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