Baptized and Set Free (ELW 453)
1 We are people created,
chosen by God.
Then we’re washed, ever gently,
in mercy and love.
Sin has power no more,
Jesus opened the door
to a fountain bringing healing,
and wholeness and more.
2 We are fed and we’re nourished,
filled and refreshed.
Then our hunger returns and
again we are blessed.
For whatever the need,
God is greater indeed:
endless ocean, always deeper
than all of our need.
3 We are nourished by water,
all living things,
and by life that the Spirit
abundantly brings.
As we journey toward home,
may your presence be known:
precious river, ever-flowing,
now carry us home.
4 Now with praise and thanksgiving,
we join the song.
All are welcome! We gather
to sing loud and strong.
Not enslaved, but set free!
From now on all will be
one in Jesus one in water,
baptized and set free!
Devotion
“Not enslaved, but set free!
From now on, all will be one in Jesus, one in water,
baptized and set free!”
On July 4, 1776, this nation’s founders set forth a declaration of independence from the tyrannical rule of a British king. Through thunder of cannon and rifle our nation gained its freedom. We still strive for a more perfect union, where freedom, equality, and justice will embrace all.
A different “thundering” reminds me of a freedom superseding earthly ones—won on a cross, over our ancient foes of sin and death, once for all.
Each summer I’m renewed hiking along the plentiful rivers along the north shore of Lake Superior. Those thundering falls and cascades remind me of the headwaters poured over me in baptism, inexhaustible waters of grace and new life through the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ.
Prayer
God who frees us, we reflect this day on costly freedoms won for us. Join us in your Son’s freeing reign for all the world, won through his forgiveness and love. Amen.