Life can take unexpected turns, leading us down paths we never imagined. For me, these paths have been shaped by faith, family, and community. I want to share my journey with you, hoping to inspire you to reflect on your own life and the importance of support along the way.
The Early Days
I can’t remember a time before church. From a young age, it was a big part of my life. Sunday school and children’s church were routine, held in the welcoming basement of our local church. There, I learned the gospel: to repent from your sins and put your faith in the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. I could recite it without thinking, but at that time, it didn’t feel personal to me.
A Day of Transformation
One day, for reasons I still don’t fully understand, I attended “big church.” I don’t remember what Pastor Tom was preaching about that day, but during the service, I had a powerful realization: I was a sinner in need of Jesus’ blood. That day, I chose to put my faith in His sacrifice on the cross.
Invitation to Believe
Do you have a story similar to this? Have you ever experienced a moment in your life when you recognized that you were a sinner, lost and headed toward Hell? There is nothing you can do to rescue yourself. Jesus descended from heaven, faced temptations just like you and me, yet lived a sinless life. He sacrificed Himself on the cross, was laid to rest in a borrowed tomb, and rose again, triumphing over death so that we may have eternal life with Him in Heaven.
A Period of Distance
Soon after, my family stopped going to church regularly. We never found a new church home, and I did not get guidance I longed for. I wanted to live a Christian life, but without discipleship, I strayed. I started living with a boyfriend, smoking pot, and moving to the beach to enjoy the nightlife.
A New Chapter
In 2021, the birth of my daughter, Meleah, changed everything for me. The Lord used her arrival to convict me of my lifestyle. I realized I was responsible for not only her life but also her salvation. Around this time, my dad had a stroke, which added more challenges to my life.
The Journey Home
Meleah and I made several trips back to support my family. Eventually, I decided to move back home. I asked my sister for advice about churches and ended up at Ridge Road Baptist Church. Within a few weeks, I met Evangelist Chris and his wife, Ms. Chloe, who started discipling me. Their support was invaluable, teaching me not only the Bible but also how to truly live for Jesus.
Present Day Reflections
Two years later, Meleah and I live with my parents. My dad is slowly regaining his independence, and my mom has reconnected with her faith. We all attend Ridge Road together, except for Dad, who can’t join us physically yet.