We just returned today from our eastern Mediterranean cruise to Turkey, Israel, Egypt, and Greece over the week long fall break. Let me just tell you about the best day of our trip! R has been interested in being baptized for a few months, but living in Belgium has presented a different approach than what we would have taken in Indiana. During Vacation Bible School week he claimed he was ready and desired to commit his life to the Lord. We wanted to make sure he understood this commitment and was truly ready, so we contacted our youth minister from back home and asked for his input. Together we completed a small packet explaining to R exactly what being baptized meant. He understood and decided he was ready! Just in time for our Holy Land cruise we just so happened to be taking on October 31st. On the itinerary was stopping by the Jordan River to one of 3 likely sites where Jesus was baptized.
As we hopped in the car for the excursion of the day, our driver discussed the agenda and informed us that some people are still baptized at this location. K and I glanced at each other as I said, "Well, if we have time and it's okay with you, our son would like to do that today." We brought the bathing suits for K and R just in case this could actually happen, and we're so thankful it did! K baptized him on November 4th in the Jordan River and we even have the certificate to prove it!
While J and I were waiting for the guys to change into robes and swimsuits, we noticed the enormous crowd of huge catfish. I told J not to say anything to her brother about those things...she agreed. That might be enough to make him change his mind! (You have to click on the picture to see them even closer!)
This is the area they've made accessible for people to enter the Jordan River.
R smiling while K asked if it was his desire to follow Jesus.
Get ready!
