Thursday, August 21, 2008

Baptism

Yesterday was baptism at the river. It was a beautiful day. The sky was clear and blue, the water was calm and sparkling. The sun was shining and I'd say it was a perfect setting for baptism. Kenton baptized a 7 year old girl and a man in his mid to late 50's. Our foreign exchange student was asking about age and baptism and it made me realize how God works so mysteriously and meets us at different ages. We are never too young to be called by God and we are never too old. To watch Ellie get baptized was beautiful, as we have all seen her growing up since she was born. She was so excited and we were excited with her. I remember my baptism at the age of 14. I remember being nervous beforehand, and then afterwards I remember changing my wet clothes and letting a lady dry my hair with a hairdryer. (I was baptized in the church building, not outside). I don't remember who the lady was now, but I do remember her drying my hair. My journey with Jesus started that year and for real and has continued to this day. I have traveled on straight steady paths and veered to the left and right. I have entered dark forests and hiked up mountains. I have dwelt in the valleys and sat by the waters and been refreshed. But no matter where I was on my journey, I know my Shepherd was right there with me. And when I left His side, He came and found me. He keeps an eye on me and never lets me get to the point of no return. And when I sit by the water He comes and sits with me and places His hand on my head and I know that I am safe. I know that He will do the same for Ellie and Scott, and that is a beautiful, hopeful reality.

1 comment:

Marsha C said...

Hey Kel,
I am so glad I found your blog. I didn't know you had one. I wanted you to know that I love you and hope you have a great week. I do remember when I was baptized too. Isn't it great that God can work in our lives as little children or when we are older. He has no age boundries. What is even more amazing is that even at our age we are still growing in our relationship with Christ. We never fully arrive. But one day, when we are face to face with Jesus, He won't think of all our foolishness, but of how much He loves us and cares for us and how glad He is that we are there with Him to share in the new journey of eternity. Sometimes it gets me through the day when I realize that this life is just temporary and the next one is forever. Thank you Jesus.