This past week-end at HRCC was one of those "I can't believe what God just did" week-ends. If you were at the riverside baptisms Sunday afternoon, you know what I am talking about. INCREDIBLE!! 40+ new believers baptised. 40+ new believers welcomed publicly into the Body of Christ ( known affectionately as High Rock Community Church ) with hugs, tears,and cheers. Whole families were baptised together; fathers and mothers baptised their children; a Small Group joined in the baptism of 1 new believer; 3 people accepted Christ and were baptised on the spot. Did I say "INCREDIBLE"?
As I was standing out in God's water waiting for the candidates to be baptised, I started going back in my mind to my own baptism years ago. I can still see the Baptistry; the painting on the wall; the steps and handrail; the oversized robe that I wore; the Pastor, Rev. Pope, waiting for me; the nerves; my parents; and the water. I wish I could remember every word he said, but it was a long time ago. What I do remember is that as he lowered me into the water, all the nervousness, anxieties, and all the things surrounding me at that time were gone. Under the water; completely covered..........peace and quiet. Then came the hugs, tears, and cheers.
Sunday afternoon I stood again in the water. But, this time AS a Pastor. I stood and waited, not in front of a painting of God's earth, but surrounded by God's earth. I felt the hugs; I saw the tears; I heard the cheers of encouragement. But, what I remember was......... helping each person experience the peace and quiet.......the covering of God's love, in the water. May you never forget.
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