To Dedicate

Dedicate: v. 1. to set apart and consecrate to a deity or to a sacred purpose. 2. to devote wholly and earnestly, as to some person or purpose. 3. to make a commitment, a pledge......

Last weekend at church, we dedicated our two youngest children, Walter and Winona, to the Lord. (Reid and Wyatt had been dedicated previously). It was a simple ceremony. Pastor Shires reminded us and the congregation of the stories of Hannah and of Abraham -- how each of them had longed for a child and had promised God that they would dedicate their children to the service of the Lord. And both Hannah and Abraham were called to make significant sacrifices when it came to their children --Hannah to give Samuel to God's service at a very young age, and Abraham to very nearly sacrifice his son to God. (Gulp. Truthfully, I hope God does not ask me to do either of these.)

We have committed to raise our children to love God and serve humankind. As we teach them daily, by example and instruction, we fail miserably daily. We need the help of God, our extended family, our church family, and our friends to support and encourage us with our endeavor.

Dear God,
Please give us the wisdom and strength to raise our children to be like You. Amen.