Long Winded?

It's good that I'm not alone in the "oops, I ran over time" club. In fact I do believe I delicately came in just a touch over my time - but what can you do when God pours out so much blessing you have to share it. One of my favorite stories in scripture is in Acts 20 when Paul is sharing in Troas. He went so long that they ran passed midnight and people fell out of windows because they were falling asleep. I didn't hear any snoring and it may be a good thing too because that guy died (although Paul raised him back up - but I'm not sure I would like to be put on the spot like that while speaking).

The Story I Couldn't Share

There's always all kinds of surprises in every trip overseas. This baptism experience certainly was among them. On many occasions we had graciously declined the opportunity to baptize new believers because we didn't want to take this privilege from the pastors who disciple them. Antony shared with us that culturally it is customary for visitors to do this sort of thing and by refusing we were more likely to hurt feelings then to accept this honor.

So the time came were pastor Pandian (on the left) whispered (no actually he hollered - it was during a "sing with all your might" worship time) in my ear that he would like me to baptize two individuals that morning. Not hearing (or understanding for that matter) a word he said I gracious replied whatever you want pastor I will do for you. A few moments later I was whisked away into a back room where the pastor opened a suit case to find me suitable baptism clothes. I figured being of some "substance" I would soon be let off the hook and I could wear my own clothes (I was likely already quite damp from the 40 degree heat). Then low and behold he found a white lugee (basically a sheet) and a shirt just my size (okay maybe a little snug).

I began to wonder if the Lord was about to humble me. No pins, belts or velcro just a sheet in a tub of water. I could hear the snickers of my students. They could sense the disaster ahead. I felt pretty unspiritual climbing into the tank to share this experience with two vibrant young believers with only the prayer, "Oh, Lord don't let my skirt fall off." Fortunately the night before some of my Indian friends were razing me about my lugee tying ability. So I challenged them to teach me a better way. I guess that's not much of a challenge for guys that wear "skirts" (lugees) on a daily basis. My new skill was put to the test that day and I am pleased to say I passed - but it was still a white sheet and I knew I should have packed gym shorts.

How would you like to have a story like this all of your own? Why not join me from January 16-28 for an experience that will shape your future. You can always contact me at steve@ccicamps.com.