We need a new, spiritual, heavenly birth. Birth isn't some decision or choice on our part. That's how little we have to do with our second birth of water and Spirit. Being born is something that happens to you. Being born anew from above is the work of the Holy Spirit in the water, delivering Jesus' death and life to us, bringing us into a loving relationship with the Father, making us part of God's family.
Baptism works rebirth and renewal.
St. Peter says that Baptism saves us just like the flood saved Noah and his family. It saves us from sin and death through the death and resurrection of Jesus. It places us into the Name of God - the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. To be baptized in the triune Name of God means that we are born into the triune life of God. God is our Father - our Maker, Provider, and Protector.