Dedication Day

Today was a special day for our family.  Today we had Levi dedicated at Church.  Really it was about dedicating ourselves (Brad and I) to teach Levi about God, to encourage him in the faith, and to one day hopefully see him make his own decision to be a follower of Christ.  We've done this special dedication for each of the girls, and each time it has been a reminder about our decision to live out our lives according to the Bible and to raise our family in this same way.

Levi is our last addition (as far as we have planned...), so this service was kind of for our whole family, commissioning us as parents.  For those of you who weren't there, here is an overview.

First we are asked if there is a special story or reason how we came to choose his name.  I'm given the mic.  I explain the obvious, and say that before Levi we already had a big family.  When we found out our family was going to be getting bigger, we wanted this next baby to be a welcome addition, someone who gets along well with the family, no jealousy among the kids.  We're also looking for a name that is from the Bible, as we want him to know that this is important to us.  "Levi" means "joined" or "combined in harmony" - EXACTLY what we're looking for!  I also explained that my cousin Amy pointed out that it must be because of my love of a comfy pair of jeans!  One thing I forgot to mention, that his middle name, Andrew, is after Brad's brother.  If Levi grew up to someone like him, any parent would happy.

We're also given the opportunity to share a life verse(s), kind of our dream for Levi as he grows into a man.  Although the following verses were picked specifically for Levi, they really are something we wish for each of our kids.  

"Love from the center of who you are; don't fake it.  Run for dear life from evil; hold on for dear life to good.  Be good friends who love deeply; practice playing second fiddle.

Don't burn out; keep yourselves fueled and aflame.  Be alert servants of the Master, cheerfully expectant.  Don't quit in hard times; pray all the harder.  Help needy Christians; be inventive in hospitality.

Bless your enemies; no cursing under your breath.  Laugh with your happy friends when they're happy; share tears when they're sown.  Get along with each other; don't be stuck-up.  Make friends with nobodies; don't be the great somebody.  

Don't hit back; discover beauty in everyone.  If you've got it in you, get along with everybody.  Don't insist on getting even; that's not for you to do.  "I'll do the judging," says God.  "I'll take care of it."

Our Scriptures tell us that if you see your enemy hungry, go buy that person lunch, or if he's thirsty, get him a drink.  Your generosity will surprise him with goodness.  Don't let evil get the best of you; get the best of evil by doing good."

Romans 12:9-21, The Message

Each of the girls were also given rocks with their name, and Levi's name on them, to help them to remember today.  To remind them to be good examples for their baby brother.

Thanks for those who came to the service.  Thanks also to those of you who pray for our family.  Although you weren't able to be a part of the service, we appreciate your love, support and most importanly your prayers.  Brad and I need it!!

Love you lots Levi!  So glad you are here.  A dream come true.