Laney's Baptism

Oh, it was such a joy. I prayed from the time my babies were in the womb that they would accept Christ early in life, so they wouldn't waste any time living for Him. Laney really believed a long time ago. Actually a little too early for my comfort, but I just prayed that we would know when she was really ready. She was scared of water, and of going under, so we didn't push the issue of baptism. I more focused on what salvation really is in conversation with her. I didn't want her to make a profession of faith, and not really understand what that was. I just wanted her to wait until she was ready, but she was ready soon! That was an answer to prayer. It is so precious to see how real it is to her. How simple. "Of course Jesus died for me." It's so easy for her to believe.

I love how the Message Bible puts it. In Mark 10:16, Jesus said, "Mark this: Unless you accept God's kingdom in the simplicity of a child, you'll never get in." Sometimes I get so mired down in theology, my wants and needs in church and all that goes along with this "religion" that I lose sight of what the basis for it is. God loved us with such an incredible, unfathomable love, that He literally allowed His son to be killed so we could be with Him. I never want to forget the wonder of that. Or not believe it so simply and factually. To constantly and completely thank Him for that. To worship and love Him based on Who He is and what he did for me. And my daughter.

I was overwhelmed by the outpouring of love from our family and friends. Grown men wept, moms went and got their children so they could witness their friend make her demonstration of faith, and every one rejoiced. It was truly what a baptism should be. I was touched by how much it meant to everyone. One of my friends said Laney glowed, and she did. She said when she came up out of the water, she wanted to burst into tears. I really think she understood exactly what she was doing. The Spirit was with her sweet, five year old self.

I want her to do what Deuteronomy 11 says: "... to love the Lord your God and serve him with all our heart and with all your soul..." I know if she does that, her life is going to be blessed. As a mother, that's all I want.

Thank you all for being so sweet and loving and caring so much about our family. I have reflected so much on how much to all mean to me and to our family. We are blessed beyond measure.
The video is coming. We have had some technical difficulties, so bear with us. We'll get it here soon!!!