September 19, 1999. It was a cool, sunny autumn day up in the Sierra Nevada mountains, and eleven year old me shivered in the icy stream as I waited to be baptized. I didn't have a clue that 24 years later I would be witnessing the baptism of my own two young daughters.
Today, November 5, 2023 I watched and listened as my 8 year old Bella and almost 7 year old Lizzy joyfully declared "I do!" as pastors Mady Long and Aaron Buttery asked them if they would follow Jesus for the rest of their days. Bella fairly shouted it, her face glowing with happiness. My eyes welled up with tears and a rush of memories, happy and sad, filled my heart as I watched them dedicate their young lives to God. They were both nervous and excited as they entered the water. First Bella, and then Lizzy were baptized, anointed with oil and then received the blessing of the congregation. TJ was right there with them in the water, participating as Pastor Aaron did the actual baptism. We were very blessed and thankful that this church not only allowed parental participation but also encouraged it.
What a huge moment for the girls, for their father who cares for them so much, and for me and little brother to witness. As Lizzy came up out of the water, she had the biggest smile on her face and declared "That was fun!" The whole congregation, of the International Anglican Church we are part of, prayed for the girls out loud, and pledged to be there for them and help them on their journey through life as they walk with Jesus. Amen! How Great Thou Art.
The hymn we sang today:
Oh Lord, my God
When I, in awesome wonder
Consider all the worlds Thy hands have made
I see the stars, I hear the rolling thunder
Thy power throughout the universe displayed
And when I think that God, His Son not sparing
Sent Him to die, I scarce can take it in
That on the cross, my burden gladly bearing
He bled and died to take away my sin
When Christ shall come, with shout of acclamation
And heal the world, what joy shall fill my heart
Then I shall bow, in humble adoration
And then proclaim, my God, how great Thou art
Then sings my soul, my Savior God to Thee
How great Thou art, how great Thou art
Then sings my soul, my Savior God to Thee
How great Thou art, how great Thou art
How great Thou art, how great Thou art!
.jpeg)
