On Good Friday, amidst the serenity of a tranquil morning, Hope Church Kuching witnessed a profound and symbolic event – a water baptism held at the pool of the Kota Samarahan Country Club. It was a day blessed with divine intervention, where prayers for clear skies were answered, showcasing once again the providence of a loving God.
Gathered together were individuals from diverse backgrounds, representing various congregations – English, Mandarin, Ablaze (Youth & Young Adults), Bahasa Malaysia, and Iban. They came with hearts filled with anticipation. Despite their differences in age and life experiences, they shared a common purpose – to publicly declare their faith in Jesus Christ and embark on a journey of spiritual renewal.
As the sun illuminated the waters, echoing the radiance of hope that permeated the atmosphere, voices rose in joyous songs of praise. Each note resonated with gratitude for the goodness of God, who had orchestrated this momentous occasion. With reverence and anticipation, the baptisees stepped forward, guided by their leaders, to embrace the sacred waters of baptism. For each individual, this symbolic immersion signified not only a physical act but a profound spiritual transformation. It was a symbolic burial of the old self and a resurrection into newness of life, echoing the very essence of Good Friday – the triumph of hope over despair, of life over death.
Standing witness to this profound act were their life group mates and cherished family members, whose support and encouragement had been instrumental in their journey of faith. Together, they celebrated the courage and obedience displayed by each baptisee, recognizing the profound significance of their public declaration.
In the words of Romans 6:4 (NIV), “We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life.” This verse encapsulates the essence of baptism – a divine union with Christ, a spiritual rebirth, and the promise of a new beginning. May the waters of baptism continue to flow as a symbol of hope, reconciliation, and divine grace, inspiring all who witness its profound significance to embrace new life in Christ.
