Sarah's "Almost" Baptism

It took Sarah some time to get over telling us she wanted to be baptized to get cookies and treats.  We were so excited when she came to us and told us she wanted to "feel Jesus in my heart" and "follow Him."  We had special moments helping to prepare her for this special day. 

She practiced the baptism stance with her Daddy, went and got the "white clothes" from Sister Berrett, had her interview with the Bishop.  Sister Spencer came and gave her a poster and her Faith in God book introducing her to "Activity Day Girls."   As far as family goes there wasn't too many of us--we loved having Grandpa and Grandma Jennings come stay with us. 

When the day came, she was excited.  It was low key.  On purpose, we didn't plan any big get togethers or make any food.  My Dad and I gave simple talks, Spencer sang "I Am a Child of God."  Justin prepared to baptize and give her the Holy Ghost, and my mom played the piano and prayed.  Yes--we did this whole program; the only problem was she didn't actually get baptized.

Justin and I will both remember this day as one of the most spiritual days we've had.  In Justin's word, "we could see her physical body take over what her spirit wanted."  I think this describes that day perfect.  I love that when the program started she wouldn't come near us and sat as far away as possible.  In the middle of my talk I could tell she wasn't liking the attention and had to revamp my talk from talking directly with her.  She wouldn't budge when everyone went into the font. 

It took us fifteen minutes to get her to the mens restroom with Justin, then she sat on the floor and wouldn't budge.  We hugged, prayed, talked, whispered, sang.  We tried it all . . .  the primary kids tried to pray/sing for her.  One of her little friends offered to even walk down in the font with her.  Her favorite primary teacher offered to help.  We tried to close the doors so nobody could see her. 

What finalized things was when everyone went back into the Relief Society room without me and Sarah.  I held her in my lap on the restroom floor and asked her if she wanted me to pray to ask Heavenly Father what to do.  She said yes.  As I prayed in whispers in her ear; I could all the sudden feel her relax and felt the most overwhelming peaceful spirit I have felt in years.  I told her we wouldn't do it today and that we could go get dressed.  She still wouldn't go into finish the program until I suggested she take care of Alli for me.  She was all over that!  Once again, you give the girl a mission, make her feel important and she's all ears!

There wasn't a dry eye that I could see.  I knew when my Dad was talking and when the Bishop was talking that my precious Sarah is one of God's innocent children that will have the chance in the here after to enter the waters of baptism.  If she decides she'd like to really do it again we'll get the witnesses and the Bishop and make it happen so she can "follow our Savior."  She lives sooo close to our Lord and Savior.  I know angels protect her.  I know that she's here for many special purposes and some day she will be given a perfect body to keep up with her perfect spirit!