On the morning of November 4th, the atmosphere at Edinburgh Seventh-day Adventist Church was charged with excitement and anticipation as congregants gathered to witness the baptism of Aaron, a 17-year-old young man.
Aaron's story is one of patience, perseverance, and profound spiritual growth. Raised in a Christian household, his journey towards baptism began in 2017 when he first felt a desire to take this pivotal step in his faith. However, at that time, he lacked a deep conviction and a comprehensive understanding of the significance of baptism. In 2021, Aaron once again conveyed his wish to undergo baptism, but the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted those arrangements. With steady determination, he persisted, and the postponed event finally came to fruition in 2023. His motivation for seeking baptism was deeply personal as he expressed, "I was done with the ways I was walking…my anger, my language" emphasising a longing for a more profound relationship with God and “not wanting anything to get in the way of having a proper relationship with God”.
On the day of his baptism, Aaron experienced a myriad of emotions—"love, humility, joy, fulfilment..”. He described the special day as one that made him feel whole. When questioned about a message of encouragement he'd like to convey to those reading his story, Aaron acknowledged that the path might not always be easy, but he passionately affirmed that giving one's life to Christ is undeniably worth it.
Aaron’s passion for mission work and evangelism became evident as he shared his favourite activities within the church community – he actively engages in outreach projects and serves as a valued member of the AV team. Driven by the love of Christ, he feels compelled to share that love with others and “what God can do for them if they give Him their time and love”. Aaron’s favourite verse in the Bible is 1 Peter 3:15 where it talks about setting Christ apart as Lord in our hearts and always being ready to respond to everyone who asks us a reason for the hope that is within us. When questioned about the impact of God in his life, Aaron shared how God has guided him through exceptionally challenging circumstances. Initially lacking a strong support system within the church, he also shared how he had felt the guiding hand of God when a spiritual mentor entered his life, and thus demonstrating love through His people.
Pastor Fitzroy Morris, entrusted with the privilege of facilitating Bible studies and later officiating Aaron's baptism, reflected on the profound experience, sharing that “tears of delight flowed for this young man who has inspired many, and there was hardly a dry eye in the sanctuary.” He went on to say “I have no doubt that Aaron will always treasure this day and all that it represents to him. My prayer is that God will continue to bless him with his richest and choicest gifts.”
In Aaron's journey, we find a testimony of resilience, faith, and the transformative power of God's love. His story serves as an inspiration for others navigating their spiritual paths, a reminder that the journey may be challenging, but the rewards of a deep and meaningful relationship with God are immeasurable.
Photo Credit: Owen Anderson
