Baby Dedication
In the fear of the LORD one has strong confidence, and his children will have a refuge. Proverbs 14:26
Twice in recent weeks I have been in a conversation about baby dedications. The first time my own pastor said, “Baby dedications are the most hypocritical days in the church.”
I knew what he meant.
Shortly afterward I talked to a couple who told me they had not attended one because they knew they would be asked to promise to support the family in the raising of the children. They were pretty sure the parents didn’t want anyone else’s input about their childrearing practices. They stayed home, creating quite a fuss from the parents of the dedicated baby.
We were introduced to “Baby Dedications” when we started attending a Bible believing church many years ago. I thought it was a great concept because I had been baptized as a baby and knew it had no meaning (though I understand that for some there is a covenant meaning my church did not teach). Sadly, the church I grew up in taught that we are saved in our baptism – a claim that scripture does not support.
I was happy to be a part of a ceremony where parents dedicated their children to the Lord. In this ceremony the parents, and everyone in attendance, vow to help to raise the baby being dedicated in the fear and admonition of the Lord.
What could be more appropriate than the whole, local family of God promising to be a help and support to raise the children of the church?
My Pastor said, “”Try it. Try to approach parents to help them in the raising of their children.” Most of us, in our pride, really don’t want anyone else giving their opinion – right or wrong – about how we are raising our kids.
I remember an argument between two men in a church a few years ago because one man’s son was fooling around with the other man’s son during the worship service. One Dad went over and corrected both boys. He was told never to do it again.
The thing about baby dedications is that it is the parents making the vows, dedicating their children to the Lord. If we take part in such a ceremony we are also asked to offer our support and help so the child will understand the things of God.
All who participate need to examine their own hearts. Do we, as parents, really want to dedicate our children to the Lord? We say we do, but do we accept all that might lead to? And, do we really want the help and input of the congregation? As congregants, will we really offer support and help when it is needed? We are going before many witnesses, and the Lord, making vows.
As parents, what will we do when “assistance” is offered?
As congregants, how will we offer our support and assistance?