We all gathered at on the shores and gathered around Christian playing his guitar. We sang happy, joy-filled praise songs then Danny took Alex (or Tama, Korean) calf-deep into the water (fully clothed) and said “Alex has something to say to you.” Oh, I can’t remember what each person said, but in her own words Alex declared her love for Christ and they went waist deep and Danny and Ono-san dunked her backwards into the water, as she came up we started singing and Danny and Ono-san prayed over her. What joy! What symbolism! What’s up with this sprinkle thing we do in the PCA and Episcopal Church? Sure, it’s not the method that matters, but boy, it’s powerful to be buried in water with our sins and rise again with Christ! We welcomed Alex with a towel and great big hugs and it was Mana’s (Japanese) turn. She has been with the church for only about a year, and went from coming as babysitter to quitting so she could be more part of the church. She is a rare case in Japan of a person deciding to come to Christ before fully understanding every aspect and weighing the social consequences. She’s jumped enthusiastically in since she decided to give her life to Christ and it’s been such a joy to watch her grow and learn as she asks questions about this Jesus she loves. When Danny said she had something to say to us, she could hardly utter the words through her tears “I’m so happy.” Shaking from head to joy with joy and excitement, I started to shake and cry myself. Baptism isn’t just a solemn occasion; it’s the most joyful, amazing, wonderful, gift and celebration! We laughed and we cried and we took pictures and we sang and we hugged and cried and laughed and moved (not quite dancing). New Life baptisms are known as special occasions and friends and acquaintances are invited and come who know little or nothing about Christianity. What a powerful witness to see people overjoyed and praising their great God with utter abandon!
If Alex was serious and Mana was overwhelmed, then Miki (Chinese) was playful! She shouted to us “I love GOD!” and after she rose and was prayed over she started splashing Danny and Ono-san! We all got big wet hugs and everyone was all smiles – Christians, regulars, and strangers alike. Sure there is something New Life has to teach us all about what it means to strongly believe, to love all, and to live in peace as witnesses of Christ.
After the celebration we all gathered in the cabin (where the retreat was) and ate and talked and had a little goodbye ceremony for Christian, Heidi, and myself. It was hard to say goodbye, but I was emotionally numb so only smiles came out and no tears, though that night I did cry. They gave us cool New Life International Church T-shirts, and I could read almost all the Japanese. Now I can read it all – ask me next time you see me wearing it!
(Left to right: Janet, Mana, Christian, Alex, Heidi, Miki)
Oh how I miss that dear group of people. What a ministry they have to love and be left by so many. God’s blessings!
