I want to thank each and every one of you for your comments, concerns, support, prayers, and time in helping our family to sort things out concerning baptism.

I also feel the need to apologize to you all. All of the comments made me really step back and take a look at myself and my relationship with the Lord. And when I did, I knew that a self inventory was necessary.

I needed to ask the Lord to forgive me for always thinking that I'm right. My mom has been allowing me to teach her on the subject of "Mutual Edification" and sometimes I get a bit haughty with my knowledge. Sometimes, I feel like I know it all and when she makes suggestions to me, my mind automatically tells me that SHE'S WRONG and I'M RIGHT! Well that's not what the Lord says which means it should not be the basis of my thinking.

Unfortunately I am human, but fortunately, He allows me to repent. When I sent out the message that said that love was missing, it was mostly my love that was in question. I had to ask myself "Do I love the Lord enough to humble myself to be WRONG in some of my thinking"? The answer turned out to be an undoubtedly YES!!!

I have asked Him to forgive me and now I ask you. Please be patient with me as I strive to serve Him His way. At times it's not easy but I know it can be done. Especially if love is present.

On a lighter note, Brandon's eyes lit up when I took home all of the e-mails that were sent on his behalf. He couldn't believe that so many people cared. We have continued to study with Brandon regarding baptism and he has been very receptive.

Last night Brandon told Larry that he felt he was ready to be baptized. Larry asked him why and what his reasoning was for this decision. Brandon told us that he felt that if something were to happen to him by Saturday and he hadn't been baptized that he knew he wouldn't have a chance to go to heaven. He went on to say that if he didn't get baptized, and something happened, he knew he'd spend eternity in hell. Larry then told him that that was a good answer, gave him a hug, and told him that he had made the right decision. PRAISE GOD !!!

Larry is planning to baptize Brandon in a small pool that we have in the back of the house after work this evening. Please pray that this effort is in accordance with the Lord's will.

May God bless you all as we serve Him today.

In His Service, Joanne