Theo's dedication at Common Ground

On March 6th, our church held child dedication and we were blessed to be a part of this with several other families. Both of our families were there and well, of course Theo was on his best behavior! Jeremy and I both love our church's belief in what child dedication is, "a practice where parents make a solemn commitment to raise their children in the way of Jesus. Our ceremony is a public recognition of the importance of the parent's and church roe in providing a nurturing and loving context where children can experience the Gospel." Not only were we dedicating Theo to God, but also dedicating ourselves as parents and our family and friends. As parents we are entrusted with a huge responsibility living the example of godly living, creating the environment where our children can learn about God and grow in a relationship with him. And that is what struck me most this time. Maryn is now at the age where she is beginning to ask questions and talks about God and Jesus. You realize how quickly they begin to absorb conversations, books, music, etc. As a parent, I want to plant the seed for both Theo and Maryn to want to know God and to have a meaningful and fruitful relationship with him. Towards the end of the dedication time, they ask for family and friends to come forward and pray with the parents and child. It was so special to have those that our closest to us share in this moment. Jeremy and I alone are not the only ones that influence our children. We need the help, guidance and encouragement of those around us.

I pray that our family foundation is always built on Christ. I pray that Maryn and Theo always know how much they are loved by us, but most importantly how much God loves them. That they not only know, but that they can feel that love daily.

Theodore Cain

how blessed we are!

our precious little boy

Maryn and Theo...

"Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength. These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up." Deuteronomy 6:5-7 (NIV)