Deep Waters: An Introduction to Baptism

I have read Deep Waters twice now - the first time on my own, and the second time in a small group setting. The imagery in the book is beautiful and inspiring, and helps the reader explore what it means to be a baptized Christian.The book explores different aspects of baptism, using nine metaphors that derive from both traditional and contemporary sources. The first three - river, bath, and birth - relate to the significance of water to baptism. The next three - gift, power, and seal - address how the Holy Spirit is active and perceived in baptism. And the final three - body, covenant, and web - explore baptism in the context of full initiaion into Christ's Body, the church.Throughout the book, Micks blends biblical references with real-life stories and quotes from modern literature. The book is easy to read and captivating; it challenges readers to act on their faith.From a small group perspective, the book is exceptionally well-designed, as it includes an appendix of challenging questions for discussion. Also, the many references to Bible passages makes it easy to blend reading and discussing the book with Bible study.

Within a weave of water imagery, literary anecdote and requisite theological etymology, Professor Micks describes baptism as a fluid, joyful birth into a life informed, inspired and fully dynamic. Baptism, she tells us, is a beginning, not a one-time event lost in baby memory, an invitation full of breathing, and one that leads towards a purposeful life in your community, and ever towards a deepening, heartening faith.I am encouraged reading this book as her literary anecdotes range from Flannery O'Connor to Helen Keller (knowing water for the first time), back to Paul and to some new spinning on hymnal poetics. Her style is welcoming: it is both gentle and scholarly, and she has the knack of bringing ancient text to life. She reminds us that the story of the flood lies at the center of meaning at baptism and she can infuse traditional hymnal poetry with new breath: the rivers of scriptural baptism become the same spiritual rivers we bathe in, and strive in, today.Take a look at her discussion of Seal, Covenant, Web. She reinterprets baptism as initiatory sacrament that most of us just remember through photos of babies in christening gowns, as she gives us back a spirited revision of this certain birth, of this belonging, with its affirming challenge of present-day purpose and questioning. She reminds us that the new language asks: Will you respect the dignity of all people and strive for justice and peace?