Steppin' Back

The wind blows wherever it pleases. You hear its sound, but you cannot tell where it comes from or where it is going. So it is with everyone born of the Spirit. John 3:8

Samuel wanted to be baptized. When Pastor shared that there’d be a baptism service on December 26th, Samuel reached over and took my hand. His green eyes sparkled and he had a hard time sitting still for the rest of Sunday service.

He talked all the way home. “I can’t wait. I’ve wanted this for so long. I get to tell everyone how much I love Jesus. And I’ll talk about the day. The day I asked Jesus to save me.”

I was thrilled for Samuel’s decision. But my mind immediately went into Martha-mode. The day after Christmas? The house would be a wreck. I’d want to have a brunch. But how could I find time to prepare the food? I could get bagels. But it would be noon. We’d need more than a bagel at noon.

Later in the day, I decided to talk with Samuel. Perhaps suggest another time. There’d be another opportunity soon.

“Hey, Sam,” I said. “I’m so happy that you want to be baptized. It’s an awesome thing, to follow Jesus’ example. And to tell others how much you love him.”

“I’m so excited, Mom.”

“I was thinking, though, Samuel, that maybe another day would be better. Some of our special people will have plans the day after Christmas. Some will be out of town.”

“Well,” he said. “I know, Mom. I figured God will work that out.”

“Well, Samuel. It’s just that I’d like to give you a nice brunch. You know, with quiches and fruit. It’ll be hard to do that, right after Christmas.”

“It’s okay, Mom . We don’t need food.” Then he pushed himself into my arms and squeezed. “And isn’t it awesome, Mom, that I can do this the day after Jesus’ birthday?” He looked up. “I can’t think of a better time. Can you?”

I looked at my little blond guy. Samuel. My I-asked-God-for-you boy. He had his mind on spiritual things, and I had my mind on everything else. The Spirit was moving in His life, and I needed to step out of the way. With my worries and concerns. With my bagels and eggs.

I held Sam for a few minutes, and when he pulled away I whispered in his ear. “No, Sam,” I said. “I sure can’t.”

Lord, thank you for your Spirit. Thank you for moving in Samuel’s life. And never, ever allow me to stand in the way.