At seven years old, I attended Vacation Bible School at Trinity Baptist Church in Indio, California. During the Bible story time one morning, Mrs. Bacon shared the greatest love story ever told. She spoke about sin, our separation from God because of sin, Jesus being both God and man, Jesus’ sinless nature and death on the cross to pay for our sin, His resurrection, and our forgiveness through faith, believing in Him. That sunny June day in Southern California, I bowed and admitted my need for Jesus, and gave my heart to Him.
I grew up in a Christian home with parents who were active in church and Child Evangelism Fellowship. At 14, a freshman in high school, I attended a large Wednesday night youth group at Grace Baptist Church in Riverside, California. On one of those Wednesday nights, while singing, He is Everything to Me, I felt the Holy Spirit convicting me and convincing me to grow in a faith that was more “my own;” to go deeper in relationship with Jesus, rather than letting religion shape my faith and grace walk.
Fast forward to age 33. Following my own “Jonah” story of excuses and rebellion, I began to write for publication and attend at least two Christian writers’ conferences each year. That atmosphere and community with my Christian writing colleagues from various backgrounds contributed greatly to my spiritual formation.
Now, in my third act (is my best guess), I am convinced that much grace and strength and growth can stem from intentional investments in relationships. In doing life with all ages, we encourage one another to take our next step from wherever we are to grow closer to where God purposes us to be.
I believe in the Apostles’ Creed and our fellowship’s statement of faith.
These ten truths stand out in this season of my life.
- God’s Sovereignty is trustworthy.
- God’s love endures forever.
- Freedom in Christ means I’m ultimately living for an audience of One, my Father God.
- Quality of life isn’t about my circumstance but about the condition of my spiritual heart.
- Gratitude is the oil that keeps my heart pliable.
- My unforgiving spirit wounds me first. Most.
- Prayer changes me.
- Story is part of God’s love language.
- God’s Word feeds my soul and lights my way.
- Living what you believe is a key aspect of faith.