Ryder parked his truck outside the church, the engine humming softly as he turned to his mom, Celeste. "This is it, Ma."
Celeste reached across the seat, her hand finding Ryder's. "I am so proud of you, Ryder." Her voice carried a mix of pride and affection. "Your father would be so proud of you too, with your decision for baptism, and with Isobel. She is exactly who he would have picked for you."
A flicker of emotion passed through Ryder's eyes as he listened to his mother's words, feeling the weight of his father's absence mingling with the joy of the day.
"All your father wanted for you boys was to be happy and live a full life. He wanted you to know and follow God. He wanted you to find wives that did as well." Celeste's voice softened with reminiscence as she thought about her late husband.
Ryder turned fully to face her, his expression earnest. "You know, Ma. That's all Dad would want for you too. He would want you to be happy, too."
"I am happy, Ryder. I have my boys. I have my grandchildren. I have Sam, and now Isobel. I have my health."
Ryder gently pressed on. "That's not what I was referring to, Ma. Dad wouldn't want you to be alone. You've been alone for so long."
"I'm not alone, Ryder. I have my family."
"You know what I mean."
"I know, Ryder. But your father was the love of my life. I had my great love."
"I know. That's how I feel about Isobel. But you just never know when someone else might catch your eye. I just don't want you to ignore it and miss it. I want you to know that Terry and I are both alright if you found someone else to love."
Celeste smiled warmly and shook Ryder's hand that she was still holding. "Ready to go in?"
"Yes. I am ready."
Once inside the church, Ryder found Luther and spoke with him briefly about the events that would take place. Feeling a bit more settled about the details, Ryder led Luther over to his family, gathered to the side near the front, to introduce everyone.
"Luther, this is Isobel, my fiancée."
"Your fiancée? Well, congratulations to you both." Luther shook Isobel's hand warmly. "It's very nice to meet you in person."
"This is my brother, Terry. His wife, Sam, and their kids." Ryder took the time to spell Luther's name for Savannah's sake, ensuring she got it right.
Luther shook hands with each family member, making a point to connect with each person and remember their names.
"Luther, this is Isobel's parents, Thomas and Grace."
"I'm so glad that you could come all the way here to share this special day with Ryder," Luther said warmly, shaking both their hands.
"We are very blessed to be here," Grace responded with genuine gratitude.
Ryder then introduced Luther to Celeste. "This is my mother, Celeste Hayes."
Luther and Celeste exchanged warm greetings, their eyes meeting in a moment of mutual appreciation. "Hi, Luther. It's wonderful to meet you."
"You too, Celeste," Luther replied, smiling warmly.
Ryder couldn't help but notice the subtle chemistry between his mom and Luther. He grinned mischievously as he guided his mom to their seats. "Mom, are you just going to ignore that?"
Celeste's cheeks colored slightly. "Ignore what? Luther? There's nothing there to ignore."
Ryder chuckled, his grin widening. "Okay, if you say so." He linked arms with both Isobel and his mom, leading them to their seats, excitement and anticipation humming in the air.
The morning unfolded with a rhythm of anticipation and devotion as the praise band began to play, filling the sanctuary with melodious praise. The congregation joined in, voices harmonizing in a chorus of reverence and joy. Ryder sat among his family, feeling a blend of nervousness and excitement bubbling within him.
As the final notes of the song faded, Luther stepped up behind the weathered wooden podium, his presence commanding attention. Ryder's gaze drifted around the church, taking in the familiar sights—the warm glow of sunlight filtering through stained glass windows, the familiar pews where he had spent countless Sundays, and the baptistry off to the side, a symbol of rebirth and renewal.
"Good morning, everyone. What a blessed morning. Praise the Lord," Luther's voice resonated through the sanctuary, eliciting responses of "Praise the Lord" from the congregation.
"Today, we have a very special treat." Luther glanced at Ryder, signaling him to join him up front. Ryder rose, a mixture of nerves and anticipation coursing through him, and made his way to the front of the church, Isobel's reassuring presence by his side.
"Ryder Hayes has chosen to be baptized in Christ today." Luther's announcement was met with enthusiastic applause and affirmations from the congregation.
Ryder felt a surge of emotion as he looked at Isobel, her eyes filled with pride and love. Luther's prayer enveloped them in a moment of solemnity and reverence, invoking blessings and grace upon Ryder as he embarked on this spiritual journey.
The baptismal ceremony unfolded with a sacred solemnity, Ryder shedding his boots and stepping into the warm water of the baptistry. Luther's words echoed in the air, each question and affirmation a testament to Ryder's faith and commitment.
The immersion, the moment of surrender and rebirth, washed over Ryder like a wave of divine grace. As he emerged from the water, surrounded by applause and heartfelt cheers, tears mingled with the water on his face, a silent prayer of gratitude on his lips.
Isobel's eyes met his, her own tears mirroring his emotions. They exchanged silent words of love and support, their bond strengthened by this shared experience.
After the ceremony, Ryder was led to a quiet space to change, the weight of the moment settling within him. Moments of prayer and reflection grounded him, reaffirming the depth of his faith and the significance of this day.
Returning to his family's embrace, Ryder felt a sense of completeness and peace, his heart overflowing with gratitude and love. Isobel's presence beside him was a constant source of strength and joy, her whispered words of pride and affection warming his soul.
As Isobel took her place at the piano, Ryder watched her with admiration, her music a testament to the beauty and grace that had touched their lives on this blessed day.
Isobel's voice filled the air with a haunting beauty, each note a testament to her love and devotion. The gentle melody of the piano intertwined with her heartfelt lyrics, creating a moment of profound intimacy and vulnerability in the sanctuary.
Ryder leaned forward, his eyes fixed on Isobel, his heart swelling with emotion. Her words resonated deep within him, a reflection of their shared journey and the profound impact of faith and love on their lives.
Celeste's hand on Ryder's back offered a silent reassurance, a connection of shared pride and joy in witnessing this poignant moment. The music wrapped around them, enveloping the congregation in a hushed reverence.
As Isobel's song reached its crescendo, emotions stirred in the hearts of those gathered. Tears glistened in eyes, smiles softened faces, and a sense of unity and grace filled the space.
When Isobel's last note lingered in the air, a reverent silence followed before the church erupted into applause and heartfelt cheers. Ryder's eyes shone with pride and love as he stood, joining the chorus of gratitude and admiration for Isobel's heartfelt gift.
The music, the lyrics, and the shared emotions wove together a tapestry of spiritual connection and celebration, a testament to the power of love, faith, and music to uplift and inspire.
Isobel stood and returned to her seat. Ryder wiped the tears from his face, stood and hugged her, holding her tight.
Luther returned to the front of the church, "Wow, how do I follow that?"
A few chuckles filled the building.
"That was wonderful, Isobel. Thank you."
Isobel, now standing next to Ryder, smiled and nodded to Luther, before she and Ryder sat down.
"As her words said, 'My dirty rags are purified. I am clean.' That is what Jesus' sacrifice has done for us. He has made us clean."
"Let's pray."