I was baptized this past Sunday here in Guatemala by Pastor Alex (our ministry host we’ve been serving under the past 2 months). What an honor!! I got to share the baptism pool with people who have been saved that we’ve ministered to and prayed for! God is so cool. His is the glory forever and ever!
Fun side note: I am Alex’s first international baptism!
So I got DUNKED, and here’s why 🙂
Yes, I’ve known the Lord for a long time.
I was baptized as a baby. I wanted to be baptized on my own accord. Most ppl are baptized towards the beginning of their relationship with the Lord. And that is beautiful! It’s a profession of faith, a public declaration that your life is surrendered to Jesus and your new life is going to look different because it’s marked by love and grace as you follow Him. Well, this baptism is nowhere near the beginning of my walk with Jesus. It’s more than 12 years down the road. But, there’s something powerful here in this truth, too.
If you will, a baptism at the beginning of your walk with the Lord is like a wedding – a commitment to another, not yet really knowing what the future holds, but choosing that person.
For me, this timing of my baptism is like a renewing of vows. Me and the Lord? We’ve been through many seasons Him and I. I’ve known Him in the highs and the lows, the mundane, and the stressful. I’ve seen His character over time. I know what life has been like with Him. And this 12+ year relationship has produced a knowledge and intimacy I didn’t know 12 years ago. Now, I’m getting to say, I’ve chosen you and I will continue to choose you.
A fun, power-packed side note: I’ve known Him for a while, but that doesn’t mean there’s not more of Him for me to get to know. He’s abundant – there’s ALWAYS more when it comes to our Almighty King. It also doesn’t mean He’s done doing new things. He still does new things in and through me daily. He’s doing a new thing right now. In this season, He’s doing new things in my heart and life.
I can honestly say:
I don’t want anyone else as author of my life. I don’t want anyone else on the throne of my heart. I don’t want anyone else as healer, redeemer, refuge, closest friend, counselor. God, you take the cake. You always have and you always will. As I’ve walked with you these past 12+ years, I’ve seen you refine, heal, sanctify, lead, guide, protect, love and treasure me. You’ve authored my story and been with me every step of the way. You’re faithful through the ages. Here’s me proclaiming I’d choose you all over again and will continue to for all my days. Until earth looks like Heaven. Until I meet you face to face.
Your testimony made me cry. Sierra my heart leaps knowing that your journey with Christ is full of fever – continue to enjoy all the experiences – May God continue to protect and keep you until you’re home. ????
Dearest Sierra! I had chill bumps when I read about your baptism!! I am so happy for you and the growing relationship you have with the Lord!!! Love you bunches! My soul sister 🙂
Wow! That is super Awesome Sierra. I am so glad to hear that you were Baptized. Praise the Lord Almighty. You all are doing great work for he Lord. I look forward to hear more on how the lord is working in your life.
So proud of you Sierra!! Your faith and total commitment to Christ is truly inspiring; and your close walk with God is obvious to anyone who knows you… Your continued willingness to give every part of your life to Christ is a great example for all of us. Thank you for being so transparent and for following God’s leading in your life. You have already done many great things for Him and I believe you will experience so many more amazing adventures as you allow Christ to lead you throughout all your life!
Soul sister is right! I love you!! Thank you for the celebration and unwavering encouragement!
Thank you so much! He never stops working and I’m so very thankful for that!! I’ll keep blogging about His good works in, through, and around me!
Thank you so much Kyle! This is so encouraging!!