May 22, 2005

May 22nd of 2005, five years ago, I placed my faith in Jesus. I was 10 years old and in the fifth grade, life was good, but there is always that longing for something 'more.' The something more I needed was a relationship with Jesus. I had been in church all of my life, but had never had a TRUE relationship with Him. I learned about Him, loved Him, loved church, etc....but it wasn't until that year (2005)I really got serious about it.

At the age of 10, I can't say I was really all that serious considering my age, but I can say that my relationship with Christ has grown tremendously in these five years. He loves us so much, and is bigger than any health problem, confict, issue, or sickness.

I realize it isn't May 22nd. I'm slightly behind....and I hate I missed such a milestone, but I was reminded of this special day today. This guy in my class, the farthest thing from serious, brought up God, church, and religion. He asked what the difference was between any old day of the week and Sunday. To which my friend replied, "Sunday is the day devoted to God. And He can change your life." He didn't want to believe a word either of us said, and continued by saying, "What is so great about God anyway? Prove to me he exists and I'll believe you." He didn't want to believe it. Surely there isn't a Heaven? Surely God isn't worth it? Surely there isn't more to life? You can fill that empty space in your life and in your heart. There IS a God who is loving and forgiving. There IS a heaven. God IS worth it. There IS more to life.

I couldn't be more thankful for what God has done in my life. He's changing me....into a better person. The best thing I ever did was say that simple prayer. May 22nd, 5 years ago changed my life. God has made everything worth it. He's made everything bearable, and He's made running this race a whole lot easier.

On August 14th 2005, I was baptized. I professed my faith, for my family and church to see. What a great thing....so grateful to be celebrating 5 wonderful, amazing years ALL because of Jesus!