A Rebirth in a New Year

As I mentioned earlier this week, I attended my friend’s baptismal ceremony and was truly touched by what she said. I decided to share Mary’s testimony, with her approval, to demonstrate the power of letting go and giving things to God. When we are faced with challenges that overwhelm our emotions, all things are possible with Him and His grace. I know that Mary is on her own journey of self-discovery and am truly blessed to have been present at her baptism.

The pastor also shared his thoughts on what his vision was for the new year. He expects to speak from the Book of Mark the entire year, which ironically, Grace, he entitled the year’s theme, “New Wine.” I thought it was an appropriate description of what I hope I will harvest this year. His sermon definitely touched on what I hope to sow and reap in the coming months as I enter a new stage in my life. I was grateful for being at the church, celebrating Mary’s rebirth, and listening to the pastor’s vision, sharing the Kingdom of New Wine with others.

Baptismal Testimony by Mary, another MissGuided Mom

I came to PazNaz less than one year ago during which time I had been going through significant changes and a personal crisis in my life. Some dear friends lead me here knowing that I may come to find peace and support during my time of need.

I grew up in a Christian family, went to church and Christian school, but I do not think I really understood what it was to be a Christian. I think I have been living the life of someone who was “Almost Christian.”

For most of the past 15 years of my life, I have been filled with fear and worry whenever I was faced with a difficult decision or life changes. I never really thought it possible that if I “give it to the Lord” that he could change my circumstances. I was busy living a life on my own terms. A good friend, whom I trust, opened my eyes to the possibilities of experiencing joy and comfort, knowing that if I would only rely on the Lord and not on my own understanding that things I imagined were impossible could happen.

I was not alone in this journey of life. I wanted so much to experience joy and peace and less anxiety and fear. I began to pray not just when I was in crisis, but on a regular basis. I believe God tested my faith.

Over the last six months I have had to make a new start in life. Sadly, my marriage has ended and I have been faced with raising two children alone. Faced with some of the most difficult adversity by my ex- husband, I have chosen to put my full faith in the Lord knowing and trusting that this has happened to me if for the sole reason that it has lead me closer to the Lord. And for that, I am truly blessed because I know that God has a greater purpose for me and my children and that things can and will only continue to get better. I have learned that God is my armor and my peace, and for this, I thank and praise him each day!

Today I choose to be baptized to reaffirm my commitment to the Lord knowing that with him all things are possible!

Guiding Lesson: Eve, what a beautiful testimony. Recommitting oneself to the God of all creation in the New Year is what it is all about. Though it is a moment you shared with your friend, each new day beckons you and your friend to recommit, renew and choose God with every breath, every encounter and every choice you make.

It appears that life all around you is in a gestation period that will, in time, burst into new life, new song and new wine. This period cannot be rushed.  For if you do, it could have negative impact on what takes time to create. It’s very similar to when you were pregnant with your boys. In order for your boys to have the best chance at a healthy start at life, it was important to take care of yourself so they could grow slowly and develop during the nine months. Even though you grew anxious to meet them, you didn’t want to risk any complications to their health.

Life has a song and does not rush to the next one until it is ready. If you quiet your mind, you will hear the music and follow its beat. Can you hear it rising from your soul?

Well, here is a poem you may probably know and is appropriate for this time in your life.

Grace

The Butterfly by Sister Therese Even
from the book “Creative Christian Living”

Not too fast, not too fast,
Let it grow, let it last,
Nature knows when and why…the butterfly.

I remember one morning when I saw a cocoon in the bark of a tree.
I remember I marveled that imprisoned inside
was a butterfly waiting to be free.

I was very impatient so I warmed the cocoon
with the breath of my sighs,
And the butterfly trembled and began to emerge
like a miracle right before my eyes.

All at once I discovered that it’s delicate wings
were all crumpled and torn,
When he still wasn’t ready I had made him be born.
I was stronger than nature and I had made him be born.

But the wonder of life had a definite plan,
So he died in my hand by the will, not of God, but of man.

Not too fast, not too fast,
Every one has a moment and I’m waiting for mine,

When I’m finally free.
But I musn’t be hurried.
Give me light…give me time,
Like the butterfly…like the butterfly…

Not too fast, not too fast,
Let me grow, let me last.
Nature knows when and why…
the butterfly.