Matthew 28:19

"Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit"

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March 8 2009

[italicized parts are excerpts from my testimony]: Up until about a year ago, I thought my Christian life was good enough...but looking back, what I thought was good enough, was not quite "good enough”...

At first, it was a slight struggle whether or not I even wanted to get baptized again. I mean, I was baptized as a baby…what’s the point of doing it again? What a naïve thought. It was even difficult to try explaining it to my parents… “no, it doesn’t make my first baptism invalid…it’s more like a re-dedication”. I told them...this was just something I really needed to do.

Upon preparation for baptism, Pastor Ed pulled out the program for our baptismal service. Wait, Pastor Ed, what does that asterisk mean next to my name? It means you’re giving your testimony. Wait…whaaaaat?? No real traumas, no near-death experiences. What could I possibly say? I began to type it out and realized I had more to say than I thunk. I created several drafts, trying to make it concise but inclusive of the essential events that really changed my life. It exposed the reality that it has definitely been one crazy year in my spiritual walk with God. He is so good and I am so grateful.

I referred to this transition as a “spiritual revival”. God began speaking to me loud and clear, changing my heart and drawing me back to Him.

I stayed up until about 5 am Sunday morning, making some last minute edits. Throughout the day of baptism, my anxiety escalated upon thoughts of my impending testimony delivery. Fortunately, I was able to give a practice read to Miss Helen to ease some nervousness and let out some tears before the real deal [thanks again for listening and I thank God for your constant encouragement…yes, we’re friends and I love you!] Even as I sat there beside the pool, I tried hard to convince myself that it was the chilly breeze and not my nerves that made my knees quiver.

And then I shared my testimony.

My voice was shaky and my heart was pounding. There were more people there than I expected and their attention was on these words that He has precisely formulated for me. I rejected the importance of eye contact during public speaking in fear of catching a glimpse of my dad, my sister…or Julian.

I really thank God for blessing me with the friendship-turned-relationship with Julian because through the years, he’s been a consistent example of wisdom, selflessness, and love…I believe that God brought Julian (and many others) into my life when I =really= needed the encouragement and Lord-willing, we will continue to grow together in the faith.

It all happened so fast. I was called down to the jacuzzi. Pastor Ed held my hands and supported me. I professed my faith and before I could think, I was submerged, I was baptized. Upon emerging, I felt very cold... but refreshed and an overwhelming joy filled my heart.
Praise God.

im so thankful that my daddy, my sister & her new husband were able to come and witness this momentous event!

and im thankful for this awesome guy,

a major reason why my testimony even exists.

[thanks for the pic helen wong!]

So why did I do it again? Well because I'm older and now able to understand the purpose behind baptism. But more importantly, I did this as a testament of my revived faith and ultimate submission to Him...and I can only hope I glorified Him through the process. And apparently after baptism, you are automatically a member of cfbc!! What exciting news to receive! I am now officially a member of a church where I've felt the most comfortable with the people and the most passionate about serving.

I know now more than ever, I am hungry to learn, and eager to grow and I pray Lord-willing that cfbc is where I’ve been called to do so. And I am ever-so-grateful for God’s ultimate sacrifice, grace, forgiveness and patience with me as I continue on this spiritual path He has laid out for me...