Saturday, February 6, 2010

My Big Moment

Last Saturday, January 30th, was a big day for me. It was a life changing day and truly one I will never forget. Last Saturday I was baptized. I won't go into details of my testimony because it is very long, but since this blog is about me and my life, I thought this was definitely something worthy of sharing. It was a big decision for me to get baptized and one that I did not take lightly. I grew up as a Christian but never had been baptized. I'm glad I waited. Not only was it an incredibly moving experience, it was very overwhelming. At my church, my Pastor likes to baptize several people at once, kind of make it an occasion. After taking a 30 minute class we are all called up on stage during church service and each of us is to give our testimony. Out loud. On stage. Into a microphone. Gulp. I had NEVER spoken in public, or even into a microphone in my life, and it was one of my biggest fears. I was shaking and kept arguing with myself that I couldn't do it, yes I could, no I couldn't, yes I could. I had no time at all to prepare, thinking my Pastor would just ask one or two to speak. As the microphone slowly made it's way down to me, after incredibly moving testimonies were spoken bringing me to tears just hearing others stories, it landed in my hands. I was shaking. I was terrified. I remember the first thing I thought was that it was heavier than I imagined. The next thing I thought, 'Oh my gosh, I have to speak now. HELP!!!'. My parents and sister looked on, along with the rest of the congregation and I just opened my mouth. I nervously introduced myself, gave my testimony and then did my best to hold back tears as I finished. Wow that was hard. I passed the microphone to the next person and instantly felt relieved. And then the strangest feeling came over me. I wanted to do it again. WHAT?! I did not just think that. Yep. I wanted to do it again. I loved it! I conquered a major fear I have struggled with my whole life and now it's behind me. I can totally do it again.
After our testimonies were shared, we lined up to the baptism tank and one by one, we were baptized. All 7 of us. Strangers an hour prior. Now connected like never before. It was incredible. It all happened so fast, but I do remember taking in every moment. The temperature of the water, what the Pastor said to me, how long I was under the water for, coming up, wiping my eyes, turning and facing the church and throwing my hands up in the air. I did it.
I've spent the last week sort of reflecting, and realizing the huge leaps and bounds I've taken the last few months in my life because of my faith. It has been an amazing journey and I can't wait to see what is in store for me next. Bring it on!!!

6 comments:

  1. Dearest Mandy,

    This post has made a rough week worth going thru!

    We never know what good is happening out there until a testimony is given. May the ripples you started wash over many who choose to show their faith.

    "I can't wait to see what is in store for me next. Bring it on."

    Sorry to bring it on first (to wish you joy), but now it can only get better I'm sure.

    Jeez, I had stopped by to wish you a bubble bath if times were tough; Wow was I out of touch!!!

    Tickled to my toes for you,

    jadedfellow

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  2. Many blessings! Congratulations on your Baptism and your new adventures from here on!
    Thank you for sharing this wonderful event with us!
    All the best.
    Kathleen

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  3. Congratulations, Mandy!

    Sometimes we just have to believe :)

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  4. Congratulations! I found you at the mom bloggers club! Look forward to connecting with other mom's that homeschool. Come over and visit me!

    justanightowl.com

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  5. Congratulations on your baptism! As well as for conquering the fear of speaking in public.
    It was really something to cherish.

    New follower from MBC..

    XO
    http://mybutteryfly.blogspot.com/

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  6. Wow! Congrats! I am so glad to have finally gotten by your blog and follow you. Well, you won't be sorry about all the "change" you are stepping out in- you can't go wrong with HIM!

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