For more than one reason Chris’ 40th birthday will be one we never forget. Last night after we were finished with family devotions Johanna asked if she could stay up and talk to Daddy and Mommy. We got the other kids down to bed and then sat on the couch with Johanna. She poured her heart out to us about how she wanted to be baptized. She has brought this up many times over the past year and we have discussed and studied scripture together. We also read through The Case for Faith for Kids in our devotional time. She has really come to understand what it means to be a follower of Christ and to make that commitment. She expressed herself very maturely and sincerely last night with tears flowing. We asked if she could pray and express these thoughts and feelings to her Father and she did so eloquently, stating her belief, saying she was a sinner, asking for forgiveness, and saying she wanted to follow Jesus. Oh precious heart, we are so overjoyed!! It was a surreal moment, the one that we have been praying about for almost nine years. As we were talking and crying together I thought, “Wow, this is really happening. This is it! This is huge!” Johanna has such a tender heart. In some ways she holds that childlike faith, in other ways she is mature beyond her years. We pray that as she has taken this major step in life that she will lead her older siblings by her example.
We are working on details of when the baptism can take place. We are blessed that both sets of her grandparents are in the States this summer and will actually overlap here for a couple of days in August. What God timing.
Here is a picture of Johanna sharing the news over the phone. She wanted to tell all her relatives right away about her big decision. What joy in our household!
We are filled with joy and thrilled beyond words that you have made the most important decision of your life!!!!
Johanna,
We are so proud of this decision you have made. We rejoice with you and your family as you prepare for your baptism. We can’t wait!
Love,
The Pridemores
Congratulations Johanna, may I call you Sister in Christ? We look forward to your baptism. Love you, Sara
Dear Johanna, our Niecey-Niece, We are so proud of you and the beautiful young lady you are growing up to be. We see Jesus in you and your desire to follow Him and make Him the boss of your life completely thrills us! It has been our hearts prayer for you to choose Jesus as Lord. Thank you for calling and letting us know of your very important decision – it made our day, our week, our month, all nine years of watching you grow! Let us know when you’ll be getting baptized. Love you! UE, AK & e
What a wonderful day! I can’t imagine the thrill of having one of your children come to you with this news. Tears certainly would be flowing, that’s for sure! And I don’t think I’ve ever seen a more beautiful picture of Johanna- she is glowing!!
What a wonderful time for you, chris and johanna!! I’m so very thrilled that you have experienced this exciting confession of faith in one of your kids!! I had tears of joy at the news!! congrats to you all, especially johanna! It’s a great thing seeing God answer prayers before your eyes!