A Baptism on Father's Day

Today Jason and I were able to witness one of the greatest joys a parent can have: the baptism of our youngest son Jacob. In fact, Jason baptized him, and on Father's Day, no less. I feel so blessed to have both of our boys on this journey with Christ, and for Jason to be the one to bring them to this place.

As I sat on the front row of the church gathering, waiting for Jason and Jacob to make their way into the baptistry, I missed my family members more than I have any other day we've been here. Really, the sad truth is that we've lived away from our families since we graduated from college. Except for a few away-from-Prague furloughs and periods of job hunting, we've never lived even in the same town as them. Actually, now that I think about it, we really haven't lived in the same state...or country most of the time. That being said, we're used to not gathering on weekends and most special occasions as some families do. Not that we like it, but it just seems to be the way things have worked out for us so far.

Today, however, I felt their absence keenly. It just seemed proper that they, too should gather around the baptismal waters to see this event: Jacob's grandparents, and great-grandfather, aunts and uncles. Joining them in spirit would be other family members who have gone ahead of us - those who chose the very same path years ago, and in turn, led us to it.

Even though they weren't there for this moment, I was given peace by knowing their blessings for Jacob, even across thousands of miles. At the same time, I was also conscious of those unknown family members who would come after us - perhaps Jacob's children and grandchildren who will be led to take up the cross because of the path he began today.

I pray that God will guide and bless Jacob every step of the way.