Therefore, if anyone a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new. II Corinthians 5:17
From the beginning, we have been talking to Elizabeth about the need for spiritual transformation. There is a "new Elizabeth" who does not live in bondage to sin any longer. While this E made the decision to ask Christ into her heart several years ago on September 11th, she was struggling to turn over her heart to Him as her Lord. This past year has brought such a change. She is becoming the new Elizabeth. Her life is exhibiting the fruit that only comes from the Holy Spirit and a transformed heart. It was without any reserve then that I responded to E when she told me she wanted to be baptized. We discussed what baptism represents-- a public commitment to Christ; an identification with Him in His death, burial, and resurrection; and an act of obedience. She talked with Mrs. Allie. Allie also confirmed the comprehension and maturing I had seen in E's life. We set up a time to be baptized only a few weeks later.
The process for baptism was all new for us at the North Klein campus...we had never even seen one. We went to the "Cow Palace" early and were talked through the process by church members. E was going to be baptized in what amounted to a walk-in tub, sort of. It was actually only about 18" deep for 90% of it. Then there was a small area that was 3-4 feet deep. She was to stand in that deeper area, then sit on the ledge of the shallow area, and be dunked backward.
She had fun visiting with her friend Hailey while we waited for the baptisms to commence.
Everyone finally filed out of the service and down the hall to the Cow Palace. Our family took up the whole first row. In attendance was Gram and Gdaddy, Aunt Shayna, Ibra, Suma, and Javi, and adopted family Paul and Sally Anderson. Thanks all for coming!
Elizabeth was calm and excited to be baptized. She came out of the water grinning!
After drying off, she received her certificate.
Here's to the New Elizabeth!
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