A Fresh Start

by Yael Lachman | published on Jan 9, 2025

It was then that Jesus came from Nazareth in Galilee and was baptized in the Jordan River by John. Immediately upon coming out of the water, Jesus saw the heavens opening and the Spirit descending on him like a dove. Then a voice came from the heavens: “You are my Beloved, my Own. On you my favor rests.” – Mark 1:9-11 (IB) 

Welcome to January, the time of year when we hear the call of a fresh start. You might hear it as the crisp flutter of fresh planner pages. Or dance music blaring at the gym you just joined. Or the hum of a shredder in the office you are definitely going to organize this month. 

But here on the cusp of a brand-new year, if you listen beneath the sound of our collective organizing and resolving, you just might catch the notes of a more ancient call. One that sounds less like treadmill music and more like the crunch of boots on icy snow. Less like a personal trainer and more like the voices of family and friends, little kids and grandparents, whispering prayers and shouting with joy as they plunge into the freezing waters of the Dnipro River.  

During Epiphany season, in Ukraine and Belarus, in Serbia and Bulgaria and the many lands of the Eastern Orthodox Church, folks are gathering to hear the story of Jesus’ baptism in the Jordan. And they’re following him…right into the frozen waters of their home rivers. They’ll be wearing swimsuits under their parkas and carrying flasks of hot tea – along with a chainsaw or two, for cutting through thick ice. Then, one by one, they’ll run or tiptoe or leap all the way in. To remember their baptisms. To make a fresh start. And to hear the voice of the One who is calling, even now: “You are my Beloved, my Own. Come to me, and I will make you new.”  

Prayer
God of new life, send us the practices, the companions, and the power tools we need, so that we might break through the surface of our days and give ourselves to the deep currents of your purpose, and your peace.

Yael LachmanAbout the Author
Rev. Yael Lachman is a UCC minister and artist who leads contemplative retreats, art adventures, and worship for all ages, most often in wild places. You can find Yael here.