Friday, July 30, 2010

Baptism x 3

Sunday was a fantastic day celebrating a step in the journey of faith for 3 special people in our family. Annalise and two of her cousins, one from each side of the family, chose to follow Jesus' example of baptism and make a public declaration of their intent to follow Him.

The baptism was held at Life Action Camp on the shores of Clear Lake. The skies were clear and the water was warm. Our family as well as grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins were all there to celebrate with them and the others who had gathered to be baptized or support those who were.

Josiah was accompanied by his mom, Rhonda, as the pastor of their church baptized him. He was the first of the family to enter the water on Sunday.
Rhonda, Josiah, and Pastor Dan

Samantha had emailed me before we left the Philippines asking if I would baptize her while I was home for the summer. I felt honored to be given such a privilege. She was next to proclaim her dedication to follow after Jesus.
Pastor Dan, Samantha, and Thomas

Annalise has been talking to Lisa and me about getting baptized for a while, but we really wanted to be home and surrounded by those closest to her for this occasion. She was excited about sharing this day with her cousins. (She also liked being in the lake on a warm, summer evening.) Although many have helped her understand God's love for her and what it means to follow Him, it was I who had the privilege of baptizing her.
Pastor Dan, Annalise, Thomas, and Samantha

We are thankful for God's blessing on our families. How wonderful to see these young people proclaim their trust in His salvation!

Grace,
Tom

2 comments: