I've shared on this blog before a few of my original hymn texts, but there are many I've written that I haven't shared. The 4th hymn text I wrote was for a hymn for use at Baptisms, and I think the time has come to finally put it up here. You can find the text below, but let me explain why today is the perfect day to share it.
Today is the perfect day because 28 years ago today, at Zion Lutheran Church (LCMS) in Fairbanks, AK, I was baptized into Christ. The congregation gathered there saw with their eyes a 16 day old baby washed with water, but faith saw and heard the sure promise of forgiveness, salvation, and eternal life given by God and marked and sealed by His name.
I'm a long way from Alaska and a lot has happened since that day, but no matter where I am or what happens to me, my life is a life filled with sure hope because my identity as a child of God is secure and assured in Christ. I am baptized into Christ.
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(If you would like to sing the hymn, this text uses the existing tune O DU LIEBE MEINER LIEBE. This video provides a good sing-along setting that, conveniently, has an intro and the same number of stanzas)
On the cross our sins Christ carried
And redeemed us by His blood.
Into Christ's death we are buried
Here in Baptism's blessed flood.
Here this lavish washing saves us
As our sin is drowned and dies.
In forgiveness God here bathes us
And to us His name applies.
Here upon our heart and forehead
We receive the cross of Christ,
Marking us as ones redeemèd--
Claimed by Christ the crucified.
All our lives Christ's stigma wearing
Though the world may scoff and scorn.
We the marks of Christ are bearing
Which to us His life have borne.
As to Christ's death we're united
So we also share His life.
By Christ's resurrection spited,
Death no more can cause us strife.
We are sealed for life eternal
Where we praises e'er shall sing.
Surely we this hope supernal
Have been giv'n through Christ our King.
Meter 87 87 D
November 2012
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