Day 8
Gift of Water, Gift of Life
Reflection By: Sheila McCann

A few.were saved through water. 1 Peter 3:20
And baptism.now saves you. 1 Peter 3:21

Water is very much on my mind as I work with my CHRP sisters to prepare for this year's woman's retreat. Our theme is "Come to the Water." I'm thinking about how I am drawn to water. Whether on the shore of an ocean, lake, river or stream, the life force that is water is compelling. It can be full of energy as a wave crashing against the rocks or soothingly calm as the current moves across and around whatever is in its way. Even the sound of water in a small fountain is music to my soul. I am drawn to it.

Water quenches our thirst for life and for God. It is a spiritual symbol of cleansing, refreshing, renewal. Water is our first home inside our mother's womb. It must be such a shock when a baby leaves that warm, wet, nurturing place and emerges into this cold, bright, dry, world. No wonder babies scream in panic.

I am drawn to the life-giving energy of water as I grow and nurture my spiritual life. The waters of Baptism immerse us in the new life of the church. And every time I dip my fingers in the holy water, I am reliving that moment.

I come to the water to receive the grace and blessing that is my birthright through baptism.