The clouds rolled in over Tokeh Beach just as we arrived.
Even the rain could not have quenched the excitement in the air as we gathered
for the baptism service. Many of you have been praying for my friends A, S,
& K. Their journeys have been quite different and quite long, and today
their journeys merged at a crossroad. My brothers have trusted in Jesus Christ
and have begun traveling His road. They have boldly made a public profession of
this life change to the world on this day!
It was an exciting day. Over 40 people traveled together to
the beach for the celebration. We began the service with prayer and praise.
Pastor Emmanuel shared the Gospel with the 12 Sierra Leonean guests invited by
my three brothers. I followed his talk with an explanation of baptism and the
announcement of the commitment my brothers have made. Each of them then stood
up and gave a short testimony of how their faith in Christ began and will
remain. They also led us in songs of praise. Their excitement was contagious
and the Spirit of God was moving and blessing throughout.
After the service, we headed to the beach for the actual
ceremony. The rain began but did not stop us. My mind was so elevated on higher
things, that I barely noticed it was even raining. I cannot tell you all how my
soul soared today. Tears of joy filled my eyes as I had the honor and privilege
to baptize my brothers one by one. Above all, God was glorified and the new
lives in Christ were celebrated to the highest today. After the baptism, we had
a wonderful time of fellowship, play and food on the beach. It was a glorious
day of celebration. So I am proud to announce to you today that my brothers
A,S,&K now will be known as M,M & J (Mark, Moses and Joshua).
These moments are not always as common as one might think on
the mission field. I am thrilled that God allowed me to be a part of the
reaping of this harvest. As I lifted my brothers from the waters today, I could
not help but think about the thousands of missionaries who have served and are
serving who have labor years to see the first fruits of the Gospel. I also
could not help but also think about the thousands of unreached peoples
throughout the world that have yet to hear the message of Christ.
Let us praise God today for the harvest, yet let us be sober
minded and not forget that in our hands the seeds and watering cans still
remain. The harvest is plentiful and the workers are few. Let us continue to
proclaim the glory of Christ until He comes to gather His faithful workers.
I love you all and thank you for your prayers!
