Awakening

Baptism Sundays are some of my favorite days in the life of the church. They’re always such sweet moments worthy of great celebration.

Last Sunday I had the blessing of baptizing a father and son outside in the Harvest fountain. Little Jaxon was sprinkled while his father was immersed in the water. After the baptismal service was complete, however, God had one more moment of celebration planned for everyone. I felt little Jaxon tug on my leg and point at the water. His mother smiled and said that he just really wanted “to jump in that fountain.” I leaned in, asked Jaxon if he really wanted to get in that water, and I got the biggest smile you could imagine. With mom’s permission of course, I replied, “Come on in, Jaxon!”

He didn’t hesitate. He jumped.

As I sat there and watched Jaxon wade around in the Harvest fountain that day, I couldn’t help but think about the series we’re in, Awakening. I think this is a beautiful illustration of what God calls each and every single one of us to do on a daily basis. Every day we stand amidst God’s greater provision and call upon our lives. Think about it. As Jesus called Peter to step out of the boat in faith and walk on water, I believe the same call goes out to us each of us every single day. We’re literally called to step into His presence and power. The Spirit nudges us to jump into a deeper relationship with our Abba, Daddy, and share our joys, our concerns, our praise and our desires through prayer knowing that – whatever we wade in the midst of – God is right there with us, holding our hand and leading the way.

Friend, perhaps you’re discouraged today. Maybe fear has you sidelined. My prayer for you this very moment is you would awake to the presence and the power of God. Remember, on the other side of an awakening, comes a movement – a movement that leads to jumping into the waters of His provision and protection knowing that God is faithful. Always.

See, you have nothing to fear. I, who made you, will take you back. I have chosen you, named you as My own. When you face stormy seas I will be there with you with endurance and calm; you will not be engulfed in raging rivers… Because I, the Eternal One, am your God. I am the Holy One of Israel, and I will save you. -Isaiah 43:1-3