I attended church for nearly nine years before I ever witnessed a baptism. That may sound strange, but it’s true. I grew up in small churches in South Carolina and Louisiana, and I honestly don’t remember hearing much about baptism as a child. The first time I really encountered the idea, I was about nine years old. I remember asking my dad, “Wait, if I jump in a swimming pool or take a bath, does that mean I’ve been baptized?” He laughed and explained that baptism was about much more than getting wet.

Looking back, I laugh at myself for making that innocent statement. But what strikes me more is that I spent years in church before I ever saw anyone publicly declare their faith in Jesus.

Today, I have the privilege of serving at a church where we’ve celebrated more than 200 spontaneous lobby baptisms this year. We’ve seen people come to faith, rededicate their lives to Christ, confess sin, break destructive patterns, and take their next step of obedience through baptism. Every time I see those waters stirred, I’m reminded of something beautiful: God is still changing lives. That’s what baptism celebrates. Not perfect people. Not religious achievement. Not church attendance. New life.

One of my favorite parts of baptism is seeing the joy on people’s faces as they emerge from the water. I’ve seen tears, laughter, hugs, and overwhelming gratitude. I’ve seen people who have followed Jesus for decades finally take this step of obedience and say, “I don’t know why I waited so long.” Every time the church cheers and declares, “Dead to sin and alive in Christ,” I’m reminded that God is still changing lives. If you have a relationship with Jesus Christ but have never been baptized, let me ask you lovingly: What are you waiting for? Maybe today is your day.

If you’d like to be baptized, we’d love to celebrate with you. Reach out to us at baptisms@calvarywestlake.org, and we’ll help you take the next step in your faith journey.