SA11 - Baptism—How to Get Ready

On this hot summer day, beneath the sun-soaked sky, Joanie Collins stood tall in a tasteful dress, demure in length yet modern, an outfit that displayed modesty and good judgment. It was a reflection of how she had transformed throughout her journey, a testament to her resilience and sacrifice, as she overcame obstacles with unwavering determination.

Now, Joanie was  ready to affirm the two questions that constituted a public declaration of her faith as a baptism candidate, confirming her unwavering dedication to Jehovah. This dedication meant facing formidable trials, and Joanie had conquered her own mountains, standing among the other forty-three delegates who had also overcome challenges to reach this sacred occasion.

Although Joanie had grown up in a middle-class neighborhood, her younger self had to navigate treacherous waters. Behind closed doors, her father's struggles with alcoholism cast a shadow of uncertainty over her life, and she lived in constant fear. Joanie faced the difficulties of an unpredictable home life, living with someone whose moods oscillated between explosive rage and fleeting moments of warmth. Always walking on eggshells, the emotional rollercoaster she experienced daily left her feeling isolated, burdened by the weight of secrets she could not share. This seemingly idyllic suburban setting only worsened matters as she fought her own battles of abandonment and anger. She yearned for stability and desperately sought any glimmer of hope amidst the chaos that surrounded her. However, with an unyielding spirit, she rose above adversity, channeling her energy towards a father that would never abandon her. It was this strength that propelled her to dedicate herself to Jehovah, committing to serve her heavenly father who was consistently loving, patient, and predictably comforting.

Faith became a beacon that guided Joanie through the darkest nights. It was her unwavering belief in something greater than herself that fueled her dedication. Faith manifested not only in a higher power but also in the camaraderie and support of her fellow Witnesses. Through shared experiences and mutual reliance, her trust grew and anchored her resolve, forging an unbreakable bond with like-minded friends in the congregation.

For Joanie, the motivation to take the steps towards dedication came from a sense of duty and service to her God. She desired to sanctify Jehovah's name, defend Him, and uphold the values He represented, which burned passionately within her heart. She had an innate desire to make a difference, to contribute to something greater than herself. Joanie recognized that there were others out there who had also experienced difficulties and possibly traumatic experiences similar to her own upbringing. The Witnesses embodied the fulfillment of this purpose, an organization through which she, as an individual, could enact meaningful change not only in her own life but also in the lives of others by helping them come to know Jehovah.

Joanie had observed firsthand numerous blessings, both seen and unseen, that had been endlessly showered upon those who chose to serve Jehovah. The privilege of declaring oneself as one of His witnesses bestowed a profound sense of joy and honor. Joining the ranks meant becoming part of an unbreakable extended family, always there to support one another. It provided an opportunity to be a part of a united worldwide brotherhood of Christians who did not allow national, tribal, or economic differences to divide them. Joanie longed to travel the world, experience different cultures, and develop a heightened sense of self and purpose. These were the rich blessings that improved the lives of those who worked diligently in Jehovah's service, taking the lead in the preaching work and congregational activities. 

Dedication means sacrifice, commitment, and unwavering loyalty. It symbolizes utmost respect for Jehovah God and all He represents. It requires discipline, resilience, and the willingness to put others before oneself. To symbolize dedication to God and mark one's ordination as someone who ministers with integrity, embraces the values, and commits to Jehovah, is to uphold His righteous standards, principles that have been passed down from first-century Christians.

As Joanie reflects on her journey, a surge of gratitude overwhelms her. Dedicating herself to Jehovah God had been the best decision she had ever made. The obstacles she had to overcome, the faith she had developed, the motivation that drove her, the blessings she had received, and her dedication which transformed her life. Jehovah God had molded her into a loving, kind, and patient person, a much-improved version of herself. With every step she takes, she recognizes that she has found her purpose—to have a heavenly father who cares about her is the most incredible feeling on earth.

Do you have a comment that did not get mentioned during the Watchtower study? What encouraging observations would you like to point out? Share your thoughts by leaving a comment below.