This book is written for children who were baptized into the Christian faith when they were too young to remember or before they could fully understand the meaning of this sacrament. It emphasizes that nothing in heaven or on earth can separate them from God's love, "a love that fills the whole world and also knows you by name."
Joyful and encouraging, it touches on the value of water in everyday life: watering a garden, taking a bath, washing hands, catching a wave, sharing a drink. Biblical stories, mentioned in broad strokes, focus on water's life-giving qualities:
When Moses and God's people
were trapped and in danger
God pulled apart the Red Sea,
making a new way to safety and life.
The book's festive spirit also leaves room for life's difficulties, mentioning "God's promise to be with you in every hard and holy thing, forever." Children are reminded of the sturdiness of this promise, "shining with the truth about you even when you aren't so sure." Its emphasis on the community of faith abounds with reassurance.
Although this book is by nature specific to Christians, its spirit is universal. For instance, a note to caregivers observes that: "The best baptismal gift you can give your child is to keep growing in your own faith. I hope you will join them in wonder instead of trying to have all the answers, that you will practice curiosity for Scripture and the Spirit's wisdom, and that you will help build communities where all people can experience safely, challenge, belonging, and grace." The last two pages are devoted to the child's own baptism, with space for a photo, the names of those present, and a baptism blessing "for you, from us."
