We baptized a guy at church yesterday. And I’ve probably witnessed hundreds of baptisms over the years, but this one was different. This one was powerful in a way I may not be able to explain. But I’ll try.
Because of my work behind the scenes I heard Josh share his testimony at least three times. Three times I got to hear him tell his story, and three times God used that story to affirm my own faith. It wasn’t long, and it wasn’t fancy. In fact, it was really quite simple. But Josh made more of God in a few short sentences than many preachers will manage in a lifetime of sermons. And what it came down to was this. No matter what – God is worthy of my praise.
There was more. A childhood faith. A journey to sobriety. Some desperate years, and a cry for help. But the core of his story was far less about Josh, and far more about God. God is worthy. He said it again and again. No matter what. He’s worthy.
Just before Josh was baptized, we sang a hymn. How Great Thou Art. And there’s no way the worship leader could have known when he picked that song, how perfect it would be, and how fitting. Then sings my soul, my Savior God to thee: How great thou art! How great thou art!
And it was just what my own soul needed to sing.
I am in a season of clinging to God, which is good. Abiding intensified. And although the season has not been easy, it has occurred to me lately that my soul is in a good place. I am remarkably aware of God and his sovereignty. I am acutely aware of my own weakness, my own need. God is more present, and more real, than he has been in a long time. And even on those days when I feel emotionally and physically weary, I do feel spiritually alive.
This week is Holy Week. It is also spring break for three of my boys. I will be taking time away from work to focus on home. And to focus on Easter. To focus on Jesus. Last night in my dream thoughts I was marking the days of Holy Week with scripture readings for my family. Intentionally bringing the Word to my boys each day. This morning I wrote it all down. And I prayed it might work. To be honest, family devotions haven’t worked very well so far, given the languages, and the audience. Teenagers and boys. So it will be stretch, but I’m hopeful.
And I am also reminded. This week will be Holy in spite of my plans. Because at the end of the day – at the end of the week – Josh is right. No matter what, God is worthy.
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