This morning I have the great honor of baptizing a man I have known for a few years by the name of Aaron Berrios. I call him "Guru" because that is his title in the martial arts, but also because I have an enormous amount of respect for him.
Guru grew up in a Puerto Rican family and has been all over the world because of his military experience. He calls New York City -Harlem - his home. He has seen A LOT of crap go down in his days on earth.
What touches me more is his more recent story. His son, Aaron, died a couple years ago in a tragedy that left Guru broken. As you can imagine, but never fully understand unless you have lost a child, this put Aaron in a deep hole - one he thought he would never get out of.
But here is the power of Jesus and the strength of grace. Guru has found his path. His story could probably write a book or two, even just the past 2 years of finding his way. Guru has reached out to Jesus, made necessary changes in his life, and found a peace with God through an overwhelming time. His is an inspirational story to say the very least.
Today, I get to take part in the public confession of Guru's faith in Christ. Today I get to be part of a story that has culminated after years of pain. Today I get to see a piece of the grace God has given Guru and what He has led Guru through. Today I get to baptize and welcome into the family of faith a friend, a teacher, and a brother in Christ.
Today I get to participate in the transformation of a man. Today I get to watch sin die all over again, and see Jesus win and make all things new.
Congratulations Guru Aaron! You are a new creation! Live Brave!
"Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved..." - Mark 16:16a (NIV)
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