by Linda Troxell

This day is the result of hours of prayer
Recited with heart wrenching love.
It’s the culmination, a ritual so sacred to me 
I can almost see the dove.

My most persistent prayer was answered today,
God and I have worked long hours for this.
So knowing you proclaimed your allegiance to Him
Seemed like He blew me His love in a kiss

When you broke through the water the third time,
I knew your life was now one with God.
It was a moment so long awaited
I think I heard angels in heaven applaud.

Today your sins were ritually cleansed by water;
Symbolizing your rebirth into the Father’s love
You’ve become a beneficiary of His final covenant
With responsibilities and rights thereof.

I pray you fully understand the privilege 
Of being adopted into God’s family.
And I pray that you will not take for granted
The grace you’ve been given so freely.

Now that your adoption by God is complete,
Remember, your redemption came at a price.
May you always show your humble gratitude
For the transforming blood of Jesus Christ.

Linda Troxell is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who lives in a small town in Southern California where she writes devotionals and poetry to post on her personal blog. For over twenty years, she worked to help men and women struggling with substance abuse and adolescent boys in group homes struggling with family difficulties. She is now retired and spends most of her time doing what she loves best, writing about the Lord, and spending time with her grandchildren.