Baby Dedication

Last weekend we participated in our church's baby dedication ceremony. This special day reminded me of God's grace, mercy, healing power and ultimate GLORY. 

"And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to HIS purpose. " Romans 8:28

Looking back on the last few years of my life I can see how He was preparing me for Hayden. Even though it wasn't all pleasant, it was all for HIS glory in the end, and inevitably my joy.

"Count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith brings about endurance." James 1:2-3

She has been a fighter since day one which started out 5 weeks earlier than "planned". But this wasn't a surprise to God, He knew, those were His plans.

"For I know the plans I have for you declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for calamity to give you a future and a hope. "
Jeremiah 29:11

Leaving her in the NICU was the worst day of my life, bringing her home a few short days later HEALED was one of the best.

"For I, the Lord, am your healer." Exodus 15:26

If you have ever dedicated a child, or ever plan on it, please realize that it is so much more than a ceremony for the church to view your baby. It is a day to promise to God, with your brothers and sisters in Christ as witnesses, that you will raise your child according to God's word.

"Train up a child in the ways that he should go, Even when he is old he will not depart from it." Proverbs 22:6

With all that God has done for me and my sweet Hayden, how can I not return her to Him? After all, He is her Father, letting me borrow her for a while. Thank you Jesus for giving me HAYDEN REBEKAH ELY!

"Delight yourself in the Lord and He will give you the desires of your heart." Psalm 37:4

Such a special day! You can check it out at http://www.crossgates.org/. GLORY to God for allowing us this opportunity. Lord please make me the mother you want me to be and Hayden needs me to be. Thank you for our daughter.