This experience of God’s ancient people is not unlike that of His
people today.  We rejoice in our forgiveness but no sooner are we
forgiven than we need the Lord’s forgiveness all over again.

The more familiar that we are with
someone, the more difficult it is for us accept that person as an
authority (or to be accepted as an authority by that person).

There are a lot of different ways in which people look at God.  

Why do bad things happen to good people, while bad people seem to
live a life of ease?  This question has haunted humanity almost since
its beginning.

    In the Gospel for today Jesus is saying that, in a sense, water can
sometimes be thicker than blood.

What is happening today is that you are publicly saying “Amen” to that miracle that God worked in you so many years ago.  Today is a special day for the rest of us too--because we rejoice with you and also because as we see and hear you make your confession of faith today, we recall our own Baptism and the many opportunities that we have had and continue to have to join you in telling others that Jesus Christ is our Savior and Lord.