redeeming september 11

Yesterday, Tim and our dear friends Joel and Mel had the privilege of baptizing Kim and Jeff -- friends who have been on a beautiful faith journey in the last year. It was an incredible evening (which I had to miss because it conflicted with my teaching schedule ... boo!). So rather than passing on the details second hand, I'll let you hear it from Kim and Mel themselves!

We can easily go through our days without an awareness of God's presence, but at the baptism last night, He clearly made His presence and blessing known. Tim said it was hard to put into words, but that even the chilling Lake Huron water (with approaching thunderstorm) felt inviting... "comforting" is the word Kim used. Another friend summed it up this way:

"In the midst of waves crashing, thunder booming, lighting flashing and the wind blowing there was a peace that can only be described by those that have experienced it."

And when rain and thundershowers were forecasted for yesterday, both Mel and Kim had prayed for specific acts of creation -- Mel asked for the sunlight to stream through dark clouds and Kim asked for a rainbow. I'll let you read their stories instead of giving it all away here.

What a beautiful way to redeem September 11.