It has power to destroy life and power to give life. Water can come as a raging flood and destroy entire communities. It can come as a gentle rain and bring forth bountiful harvests that feed millions. Clean water is a more basic need than food. Nothing can survive, grow and flourish without water.
Water is also a powerful symbol in the Christian community.
The waters of baptism symbolize the gift of God's grace, the forgiveness of sin, rising to new life in Christ and our welcome into the household of faith. Water is also a rich biblical image. Water is a sign of hospitality to the stranger and sojourner. Water brings life to those who wander in the wilderness. Water cleanses and purifies those who would present themselves before God.