Living YES!: Grandma Ole's Baptism at 84

Grandma Ole

Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you saying, "This is the way, walk in it." — Isaiah 30:21

In 2018, at 84 years of age, my grandma decided to get water baptized. I recall my mom calling to tell me that Grandma had made this decision and that it would be meaningful if we could all attend church together, and then gather lakeside for this special occasion.

I'll never forget that beautiful September day in Minnesota, when many of our family members were there to witness her walk into the water.

Grandma had been a follower of Jesus as long as I could remember, so it struck me, that at her age—when it wasn't comfortable or convenient—she felt called to take this step of faith in this season of her life. Like many, Grandma had been baptized as an infant, and that had seemed suitable to her until she felt a nudge in her spirit from the Lord.

Her pastor had done a special teaching on the significance of baptism, and she knew in her heart that she was to take this step of obedience. I observed Grandma's walk with the Lord to be a more personal and private one, so this outward declaration of obedience made such an impact on me. I thought, "At 84, Grandma is still growing, still being sanctified." It excited me to see that she was being moved by the Spirit of the Lord, and was obeying him. Her willingness to be vulnerable before her family strengthened my faith.

There she went under the water, and emerged radiant and smiling. My heart leapt along with everyone else. "Thank you Jesus, for the opportunity to witness this most precious moment."

Then something even more precious happened. When all of the baptisms were complete, the pastor asked all of us gathered there, if there was anyone who felt they also wanted to be baptized. Two of Grandma's great-grandchildren raised their hands. They wanted to follow her example, and make their own declaration of faith.

It was beautiful to witness the legacy of faith born in that very moment. Because Grandma followed the Lord's leading, she was able to bear witness to immediate fruit of her obedience. It was as if the Lord whispered, "See what I will do when you walk in my way?"

While preparing to write this story, and interviewing Grandma, she worried I wouldn't have enough from her experience "to fill a whole article".

It's clear we often overlook the impact our simple acts of obedience can have on others. There is nothing more profound than witnessing spiritual humility in those who go before you.

Learning from Grandma Ole, I'm reminded that sanctification is a life long process, there is always more to discover in Jesus, and He will forever show me the way to follow him.

—Shani

Reflection from Judy

Oh, Shani, I love this story of your Grandma Ole...

Obedience to the Lord is meaningful at any age, but reading about an 84-year-old woman is just extra touching.

I'm thinking about YOU...our precious readers...Grandma Ole's story made me think—what if some of you have not yet taken that step to become baptized in water?

In water baptism you are making a declaration of your faith in Jesus Christ. It's a wonderful way to outwardly show others you are a disciple. If this is an act of obedience that you have put off for whatever reason...now is the perfect time.

Hopefully as a follower of Christ you are plugged into a strong, biblically sound church. If you love Jesus, have accepted Him into your heart and have not been baptized in water...your church will hopefully be thrilled to direct you.

Like Grandma Ole...your baptism could make a huge impact on those in your circle. And strengthen YOUR own walk with Jesus! Blessings.

—Judy

Do you know someone in the second half of life who is making a meaningful impact for the Kingdom? We’d love to hear their story as we continue gathering inspiring examples. Please send to info@yestoserve.org.