Sam Houston, the famous politician, general and Texas legend, moved to Independence Texas in 1853 so his children could attend Baylor (it was located in Independence at the time). Late in 1854, upon hearing a sermon delivered by Baylor President Rufus Burleson, Houston committed his life to Christ. Wasting no time, Houston was baptized in Rocky Creek.

As Houston walked down to the water’s edge, Rev. Burleson noted that Houston still had his watch on his hip. He pointed it out to Houston, and the politician handed it to a friend.

“You’d better hand him your wallet, too,” remarked Burleson.  “No, I believe not pastor. I’m afraid it needs baptizing, too,” responded Houston.

After he was baptized, Houston was congratulated by his friends. “Well, General, all your sins have been washed away.” “If that be the case,” replied Houston, “God help the fish down below.”

We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father,                                  we too may live a new life.  Romans 6:4