I remember years ago stepping into a small Sunday school classroom, more curious with every new child that walked in the door. With every bible story that was told. Could Jonah really be swallowed by a whale? Could Jesus truly walk on water? Could the Parable of Talents be of any value to me? At the young age of 6 I was truly intrigued. At the age of 11 I truly met Jesus. I felt his overwhelming sensations of love as I worshiped at Element. I began to love more and more like him. I began to live more and more like him. My heart of wonder started to purify into a heart of truth. I was then re-baptized on my own terms at the age of 12. I was called to the water along with many other student believers that day as we all rejoiced and proclaimed our love for our father. Next comes along my first CIY trip to the Lake of the Ozarks at the age of 13 where I encountered Christ even deeper. I spent most of my time here with the community of my youth group crying and worshiping as we rejoiced in the presence of our God. I then moved to Colorado two years ago at the age of 15. I was welcomed into a community of believers and I have found my home. Christ has given me a platform of strength and hope through a transition that I am ever so grateful for. This leads up to where my 17 year old heart lies today. This summer I was given the opportunity to go on a week long missions trip to Vegas and it was an impeccable experience. I was able to share a lunch with the homeless. I was able to worship and share the gospel with the strip. I was able to encounter God in waves of deep love. This past weekend I was able to go to the National Youth Workers Convention and learn about how to teach Christ, how to be bold in my faith, and how to prepare for missions. I have been challenged today with doubts. I have been challenged today to lead. I have been challenged at the age of 11 to go on missions trips one day and I stand today able to say I am a proud missionary of Christ. I couldn’t be happier with my journey of faith- a journey where my next step is a step into the sand of ministry on his missions field. My life has been nothing but a calling to be a missionary for him. A calling to be a disciple of his love- now and forever more! Now with 9 months fully committed to him, I couldn’t be more excited. Let the fun begin!
