Our creek is swollen three times it's normal size and the water current is about 10 miles per hour. Don't ask how cold the water temperature is because I just thawed my fingers enough to write this blog.
Egads - this will be a memorable baptism experience on Saturday!
In fact this entire confirmation program has been memorable in ways we've not yet seen in recent past. What stands out in my mind this year have been the deeper questions we've pondered... a student deciding not to be baptized and confirmed because she realizes she is not quite ready 'to go public with her faith'. She did not want to do an empty ritual. (wow- gotta admire her honesty and integrity)
Student from another congregation in our area who after completing all the necessary aspects of the program will be baptized within their home church, yet feeling torn because of the camaraderie and community we've experienced together. His eyes lit up like Christmas tree lights when we told him, 'he'd always have a home here'.
Student who desires to dig deeper in her faith and show her commitment to Christ in a different and yet separate way from how her parent's have guided her. She wants to show God that she is the one now choosing her faith... so we will re-affirm her baptism in the creek.
Not only have the students inspired and stretched my theological imagination (in other words they'd made me earn my keep this year), but I am equally impressed by the caring commitment our mentors make with our students. Wow- we have some amazing mentors because the stories and reports our confirmands tells us... influence, impact, advice, wisdom, love, care... these mentors have POURED into their students.... it is such a blessing!
Labor of love- that is what this is. A labor of love to make disciples and not church members.
No wonder the creek is swollen because my heart is overflowing with pride, joy and love as well.
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