Today I plan to do two important things, not three or seven. Just two. Of course, more important moments may come forward, but I cannot anticipate them. I’m planning for only two and that’s enough for someone my age.
The first important moment is the meeting of a community Memoir Group. I think maybe four or five “mature” citizens will attend. We will read to each other the stories, anecdotes, and vignettes we can pull up from the dark place called Memory. Ah, yes; Memory. I knew him well. One or two of us will not remember that we read that particular piece at the last gathering. My friends will be kind because they do the same thing and because they don’t remember what I read, anyway. Some of us are hesitant to admit that Memory packed up and moved to St. Louis not long ago.
Today’s second important moment will be in the late afternoon when I will baptize a very nice woman who just remembered that she was not baptized as a child, she can’t find any pertinent documentation that would confirm an adult baptism, and that it would be a good idea to take care of this oversight in the second half of her life. I agree and will be honored to conduct this sacred ceremony.
The point: Memory is involved in both events. Clearly in the first, as in the second which asks us to go far back into history, to the baptism of Jesus in the Jordan River and to his admonition to “go into all the world…baptizing in my name.” This holy rite of the church is remembering, rejoicing, rebirthing and responding to an invitation. Baptism is not a good-luck charm or fire insurance. It’s a response to an invitation to attend a party that starts now and extends into eternity. Some things are important to remember, some aren’t. This is.
So, today I will be doubly blessed. I will laugh and cry with friends as we remember poignant particles of our lives and I will feel again the presence of The Spirit splashing around in the waters of baptism. As the Psalmist of the Old Testament writes: “this is the day the Lord has made; I will rejoice and be glad in it.”
You got that right!
Shining Spirit 
I grew up in St. Louis, so it is good my memories go there and today your message revived fond memories of my own baptism and those of my children. I rejoice in this day.