I got baptized when I was about 9 years old and I don’t know if I remember it so clearly because the memory is actually fresh – or because I have watched it several times on video. I do remember, though, trying to dunk myself before it was time to go under the water.
I have thought many many times since then if I should be baptized again – seeing that I did not become a Christian until I was 12. So many significant things have happened in my spiritual life since then-but I am pretty sure this year is by far the most growth I will experience in a short amount of time. When we found out that we were to be going to the hotel to swim, Mike (of Mike & Patti – our coaches) proposed the idea that those of us who felt the need, could get baptized. I knew that I was supposed to do it. I know that I have been baptized before, but this time it was different – this time I am different. I knew that this time was symbolizing all the Christ has done in my life and that I am surrendering completely to Him – ALL of my life, always, only for Him!
Having Mike baptize me was going to be huge for me- such an honor. He and I have a really special connection and have from the beginning. There are so many things about him that remind me of my Dad, and having him around me is a huge comfort…being away from home. Sometimes when Mike is around, I feel like my Dad is with me. I want the moments that Mike baptized me forever etched in my memory – it was one of the most beautiful moments in my life. He shared some really encouraging and beautiful words over my life and asked me if I was ready to completely surrender my all to the Lord. Mike began to cry as he spoke to me and of course, I could not help myself- I cried too. The tears were a celebration of how incredibly powerful and full of love that moment was to my life now and for the rest of my life.
Here is a picture of the celebration:
