Dedication
This morning we stood before our church family and dedicated Mary Anna's life to the Lord.
What a special time to commit Mary Anna to Him, ourselves to teaching her His truths and being supported by our church in this journey.
Doug, one of our pastors, said at one point, how it takes more than just us to raise our children. We've often talked about the village our own family forms to help us raise these precious children, and to now celebrate the extended church family that will also help us, is so encouraging. Doug prayed for the people who would be involved in her life - specifically for her Sunday School teachers - which was such a neat perspective, a wonderful reminder of the impact we all have on one another's children as work is done in AWANA's, VBS, Sunday School, nursery, or any area of interaction with these young minds. What a privilege...
Jon, one of the fathers in our congregation, came up to us afterwards and said "we're dedicated". At first I thought he was acknowledging that it was done, we dedicated her today. When he repeated himself I realized he was confirming, to Jason and I, that he meant himself - the church - is dedicated to this child. My, what a statement that was to both Jason & I.
How exciting it is to think of the future ahead of this little girl and to imagine what it holds. Our prayer is that it includes a personal relationship with her Father, one that she grows in and nurtures with her own quest for knowing Him more.
What a special time to commit Mary Anna to Him, ourselves to teaching her His truths and being supported by our church in this journey.
Doug, one of our pastors, said at one point, how it takes more than just us to raise our children. We've often talked about the village our own family forms to help us raise these precious children, and to now celebrate the extended church family that will also help us, is so encouraging. Doug prayed for the people who would be involved in her life - specifically for her Sunday School teachers - which was such a neat perspective, a wonderful reminder of the impact we all have on one another's children as work is done in AWANA's, VBS, Sunday School, nursery, or any area of interaction with these young minds. What a privilege...
Jon, one of the fathers in our congregation, came up to us afterwards and said "we're dedicated". At first I thought he was acknowledging that it was done, we dedicated her today. When he repeated himself I realized he was confirming, to Jason and I, that he meant himself - the church - is dedicated to this child. My, what a statement that was to both Jason & I.
How exciting it is to think of the future ahead of this little girl and to imagine what it holds. Our prayer is that it includes a personal relationship with her Father, one that she grows in and nurtures with her own quest for knowing Him more.
Mary Anna wore the dress my mother made for my dedication 31 years ago. My sister wore it, Caroline wore it and now our sweet Mary Anna. Another wonderful legacy passed down to this child.
What a beautiful day for your family. I love the family picture too.
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