Dedication to the Lord

It's exciting whenever a new child enters a family. There's no greater moment when parents sense that children are a gift from God. In these joyful moments, pastors have the privilege of sharing how parents can express their full appreciation to God through baby dedication.

Dedicating a child acknowledges God's sovereignty not only over the child, but also Mom and Dad. Parents present their child before God and His people asking for grace and wisdom in carrying out their responsibilities. Parents also come praying that their child might one day trust Jesus Christ as Savior for the forgiveness of sin.

The best passage for discussion as to why we wanted to have Anna dedicated is Deuteronomy 6:4-7. First, it commands parents to love God; if they truly wish for their child to one day love and follow God, their lives must be an example. This is a good challenge for Jeremy and I to live as godly parents. 

Second, Deuteronomy makes clear that the duty of teaching children belongs to us- her parents; Sunday schools can provide weekly instruction, but we must seize the teachable moments that arise throughout life.

Sometimes it is custom for parents to choose godparent(s). Often viewed simply as an honorary title, its value however can be greatly enhanced by defining how this role will be carried out. Many godparents assume responsibility to provide cards and gifts of a Christian nature for the child on birthdays and holidays. Some periodically ask the parents how they are doing in training their child (Proverbs 22:6). Still others have arranged that in the event of the parents' unexpected death, the godparents will take the child into their home (This of course requires legal documentation).

So, Jeremy and I felt it was important to have Anna dedicated to the Lord.  As our promise to raise Anna up in His word.  It was a beautiful day, and the dedication though short and simple, was wonderful as well.  We were shown much support by family and friends. After our church service we had everyone over for a little luncheon.  It was fun, and almost like a little party... even though we weren't meaning for it to be a party.  But then again, why not take the opportunity to eat a little and socialize when all our families are together?!

Anna is such a loved baby!!  We are blessed beyond measure to have the family and close friends that we do.  Our small gathering was about 30 people... hahaha... but it was fun.  Also it was a good reason to have my house clean... and it was a good reason to get together, eat, and try out the garage space as an overflow for party food.  (Since her birthday is in December I figured we needed to figure out a way to get the large number of people in our house without forcing everyone to sit on top of each other.  I was inspired by my in-law family who routinely have parties using their large garage.) It worked out well!