Baptised...

On Sunday 27th October 2013 I got baptised.

 An adult Christian baptism is an extremely personal decision and, in my case, a very considered decision. But I finally obeyed the ever increasing and pressing voice at my shoulder to do this and took the plunge (excuse the pun) at a special service at my daughter's church.

Why does one get baptised? My understanding is that it is an opportunity to make a public declaration that Jesus is my Lord and Saviour, and that my life belongs to him.  Not everyone chooses this for themselves (and that is to be respected) but for me it was a decision that was escalating in urgency over time. The more I read about the accounts of Jesus's life and ministry, the more I realise that being baptised is a natural progression for me.  Very natural after my decision to cross the line of faith so many years ago. 

The beauty of the occasion was that I was able to share it with my special daughter, Robyn, who had played an enormous role in my return to the fold.  Having spent the past 11 years in the "desert", Robz had always been on the edges, showing me the way with her gentleness and commitment in the Lord. Although I have been a Christian for most of my life, my walk had taken a serious detour - into the depths of mental pain and anguish. It's been a slow process of healing but my path (including the detour), I believe has been Divinely approved for God's greater purpose. But now, My Lord has made me well again and I am filled with immense gratitude.

My walk to the font on Sunday was somewhat surreal - like being in a bubble, at the feet of my Lord. Although the auditorium was packed with singing worshippers, I felt in a very personal space. I was praying for not only me, but also for my family and dear friends amidst this decision. I know that they may be confused at my sudden transformation over the past 3 months - from a cynic and reticent onlooker to someone brand new in God's gentle embrace -  and I pray for their peace in this too. The pastor's words to me, just before being immersed, were so assuring. Maybe I didn't hear him right, but the message I got and which will remain with me forever was...

 "God has got it!".

He had the kindest face that I have seen in a long time ... the same kindness and grace that I imagine Jesus would have in that very moment. Yes, "God has got it".  He's got my back.  He's got my friends, my family, my anxieties, angst, hope and joy in his plan for my life. And I simply can't internalise this immense grace....undeserved grace!

"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord. "Plans to prosper you and not harm you, plans to give you hope and a future" (Jer 29:11)

Please, friends, bear with me as I travel this new path.  I know my vulnerabilities and ask for your understanding.  Perhaps you can grant me "forgiveness in advance" for the times that I will, most certainly, fail and perhaps hurt you in the process.  We are all cherished, loved, valued and purposed. 

"I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in his holy people, and his incomparably great power for us who believe." (Eph 1:18,19)

With love, in Christ

Caryl