What was life like before you met Jesus?
Before I met Jesus, peace was lacking in my life. I mostly believed that everything I did or accomplished was due to me and my efforts and talents alone.
How did you meet Jesus?
Jesus has always been part of my life since I could remember. I grew up Catholic and when I was young, my mom would say prayers with me. Her parents were strong Catholics and that was passed down to her. When I was 14 my parents divorced and my home was broken, chaotic, and suffered financially. My dad wasn't around much and since I was the oldest of five girls and I became a second parent. My mom was stressed out. I never wanted to be in that position. I knew I did not want a big family because of my experience. I wished I had a “normal” family with both parents who would attend my sports activities. My parents never came and I felt very alone, depressed, and stressed. At times, I questioned if there was a God. I had to find my own way spiritually to God like most young people. When I got married in my mid 20’s and we had our first daughter, we went back to church on a regular basis. I never wanted my daughter or future children to ever feel alone like I did. I believe my parents did their best with what they had and we have a good relationship today. Because of my experiences, advocating for children was ingrained in my heart and soul. I was a child advocate for 25 years and was even appointed to the State Board by Governor Reynolds.
Catholicism always felt ritualistic except for the homily. That's what both of our families practiced. After I divorced, I went to my daughter's Godmother's church where she was a pastor. She and her husband Kurt are like parents to me and we are family in spirit. I loved her church (Lutheran ELCA). Going there felt more spiritual and nothing hindered my relationship with God. I became an associate member of their church in 2009. When Pastor Linda retired in 2019 my heart left the church because Linda left because that's what pastors do so that the congregation doesn't keep thinking she is the pastor. Even though I felt my spiritual life improved it still wasn't where it needed to be. I went through different trials personally and professionally and I believe it was God telling me to trust him and center my life around him. When Covid hit my friend Nathan brought me to Veritas. I felt at home and my journey was brought even closer to God. I learned something very important. I learned that you must believe that Jesus died on the cross for you. I learned that it's not through your works but through grace that you are saved. For this, I am forever thankful to Veritas.
After being saved by Jesus, what is your life like now?
I don't worry like I did before I centered my life around Jesus and I have peace. Many of us have had a father who was absent for at least part of our lives and we still know that we are God's children. I know that I have a Heavenly Father that will never leave me, even when our earthly fathers do. John 3:16 says “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.”