Jesus demonstrated very little enthusiasm for religious traditions and rituals. But there are two traditions he expressly asked his followers to observe and participate in. One is communion (or the Lord’s Supper), and the other is baptism. Both traditions are powerful symbols and reminders of the great love he has for us, and his love's ability to transform our lives. 

Baptism is a way of publicly acknowledging your decision to follow Jesus and begin a new life in relationship with Him. It symbolizes the washing away of your past sins and mistakes, and embracing a new beginning with a new hope and destiny for your life. It is a celebration with your friends and family of forgiveness and new life, and a powerful testimony of God's love and grace to the rest of the world.

“If we’ve left the country where sin is sovereign, how can we still live in our old house there? Or didn’t you realize we packed up and left there for good? That is what happened in baptism. When we went under the water, we left the old country of sin behind; when we came up out of the water, we entered into the new country of grace—a new life in a new land! That’s what baptism into the life of Jesus means. When we are lowered into the water, it is like the burial of Jesus; when we are raised up out of the water, it is like the resurrection of Jesus. Each of us is raised into a light-filled world by our Father so that we can see where we’re going in our new grace-sovereign country.”  Romans 6:2–5  (The Message)
 

For a more thorough explanation of baptism, check out this message on the topic:

Curious about who should be baptized? Click here to read more!