A Day That We Have Prayed For

Yesterday was a very special day in our family. Our family gathered together at church and then spent some time at our house afterwards eating lunch. As our family is spread out over a couple of states and multiple churches, coming all together is a pretty special time. This gathering was in honor of Riley. This family time occurred because Riley made the decision this summer to be baptized. Yesterday was a special day because I was blessed to be able to baptize my son.

The emotions of that experience were intense. Having prayers answered in such a powerful way was an incredible feeling. To be a part of my son making the most important decision in his life is something that I will never forget. I pray that this day and the memories from it will be embedded with Riley forever; for him to remember his family watching in support, his understanding that God loves him and wants him, his church singing to him, the love that surrounded him.

I pray protection over Riley. I know he will mess up and I pray that he always knows that his sins are forgiven and the grace of our Lord washes over him. I pray that he continue to learn from us, his brother, his grandparents, his aunts and uncles, his cousins and friends as he strives to walk closer to God each day.

I thank God for the experience it was for me. The butterflies. The excitement. Seeing the joy on his face. Seeing family and friends join us on the stage to celebrate with us. Seeing Stephen Bailey up there too as he rushed over from his church. The special connection that Riley and I had. The look in his eyes. The hug right after.

The angels were rejoicing yesterday because of the decision that Riley made.

Of course the baptism had to have a Riley flavor to it. As I spoke and moved to the point where I was going to ask him some questions in front of the church, he reached up and grabbed one of the microphones and adjusted it down to his level. He wanted to make sure that he could be heard as he answered my questions, and he does not shy away from any microphone. Even a little silly thing like that made it an even more special day.

Please pray for this new brother in Christ, my son, Riley.