Childlike Faith

Let the little children come to me; do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of God.

Mark 10:14 ESV

Excitement filled the air. Kids laughed and squealed with delight. A few of the girls demonstrated their cheerleading skills. They chattered together incessantly even jumping up and down at times.

“Party?” you ask. Nope, these kids, third through 6th graders, lined up backstage of our Worship Center in anticipation of their baptism. Two were brother and sister. Two shared the same classroom at their school. All had family, friends, neighbors, and even eachers there to witness the event.

Each one had accepted Jesus as their Savior and all could not wait to follow him in baptism. An outward expression of what had already happened in their hearts, their exhilaration about participating affected everyone around them.

Then it began, one by one each child entered the water and answered the question about Jesus being their Lord and Savior with a heartfelt “yes!”

Afterwards, the females returned to the girls’ dressing room to change out of their wet clothes. Their elation did not wane. Giggles and chitchat could be heard in the hall even with the door closed.

When dressed, the time came to sign the baptism wall. Brother and sister chose to write their names close together. Others found a friend or family member’s name to write their own by. Others simply found an empty spot waiting to be filled.

Eventually, with pictures taken and hugs all around, the youngsters left the baptism area to go sit with family and friends.

I have to say all baptism experiences are unique and glorious, but I came away with such a renewed sense of inspiration and rejoicing that morning. I wanted the joy of my salvation to shine through me just as it had done through these children.

Father, those kids may have had a childlike faith, but I could not get enough of it. Thank You for allowing us to experience your kingdom when we come to You with faith like theirs.

Susan Partida