What was life like before you met Jesus?
I am grateful for having known Jesus throughout my lifetime. My mother converted to Catholicism when I was a child in order for me to attend a Catholic school K-12. It hurts my heart knowing young children grow up not knowing who Jesus is. Beyond that, I knew Jesus was always there, but I battled with being consumed by our world. Later in high school I began to rely heavily on the opinions and views of my peers. My view of myself was based on what others thought of me. I wanted the love and safety of people, not from a God whom I couldn't see or touch. For years, it led me down a path of selfishness and a closed heart to others. I knew who Jesus was, but not the true love of His heart.
How did you meet Jesus?
Going down a road of self-serving behaviors got me into a lot of trouble. Whether that be with the law, with others, or even myself. I laugh writing this now with the understanding God had his hand on me through it all. A few short days before leaving college, my sin finally collapsed in on me forcing me to make a very important decision. On May 17th, 2015 I gave my life to Christ at Candeo Church with my mom, aunt, and Pastor Paul praying over me. If I thought my life was a ride before, boy was I in for a treat. I've carried Roman's 8:31 with me ever since (literally as a tattoo). Even with the ups and downs that occur, I have trusted Christ to always be for me, even if I feel everyone is against me.
After being saved by Jesus, what is your life like now?
Following the years of knowing Jesus, he has shown His love and grace towards me more times than I can count. He has set a path before me where I can see His hand in it all. He has provided so many new people in my life, even recently, who show me the love of Jesus and what it is to be a follower. Knowing I have eternal life through Christ, and he is a comfort for my soul is illustrated in John 10: 27-28. "My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me. I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one will snatch them out of my hand".