Ezra has a fear of water and so we were not sure what to expect during the actual baptism. Tim had spent several days prior to practicing with Ezra. Of course it was without the water, so we didn't know if would help or not. Not only does Ezra have a fear of water, he also hates when another person holds him and does any kind of trick with him (most babies and children love being tossed in the air or swung in circles--not Ezra ... that terrified him). The whole baptism thing seemed doomed with Ezra's "issues". We were afraid that, even if he got OK with the water part, he would panic and flail when he was brought back down into the water. And if that happened, Ezra would most certainly cry loudly and we would be unable to calm him for some time. Our entire family was praying he would be able to relax and be at peace through the experience. When Ezra walked down into the water, Tim said he was as stiff as could be. He was squeezing tight to Tim. They stood in the water for a couple of minutes and Tim quietly talked to Ezra until Ezra was ready. Our prayers were answered. Tim was able to baptize Ezra without a hitch. It was a little miracle in our family's eyes and such a testament to Ezra's goodness. He was afraid and yet he did not let that keep him from following in Jesus Christ's footsteps. It was such a beautiful experience. After the baptism we had some time to share our testimonies and then ended with a song and a prayer. The spirit was strong. My mother-in-law talked of how far Ezra had come and how he had had such humble beginnings as a baby boy, nearly starved to death and being found (basically naked) in a busy Ethiopian market. Here he was a fine, strong, healthy, intelligent, loving 8 year old boy who knows what he wants out of life. Another miracle. And a blessing to our family.
After Ezra's baptism we had a huge get together at our home with family and friends. I made a ginormous pot of pork & bean chalupa, we had family and friends provide a dessert, and we all ate ourselves silly and had a fun afternoon of visiting and playing.
Bethlehem took these pictures and in the chaos we neglected to get a family shot with Ezra. I am bummed about this.
3 comments:
awwwww... this post made me cry. :) Love all the updates today!
Way to go, Ezra! He is so strong. I didn't know any of that about when he was a baby. This post brought tears to my eyes. The Lord truly blesses us, and knows our needs. :)
That post made me tear up. I am so proud of him and thankful that Heavenly Father helped him to have peace on this very special day
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