Wednesday, August 4, 2010

Hi, My Name Is Jessica

Hi, My name is Jessica. I am a sinner.

I don't know the date. I don't know when or how it happened. I don't know where I learned everything I know about Him. I don't know why my mom didn't take me to church. I don't know why everything is changing. I can't tell you how He has helped me. I can't tell you how something relates to my story. I can't say "this is a time when He taught me this" or "I remember how He brought me through this". I don't have any scripture to inspire you. I can only recite two by heart. I did not go in front of a congregation to be saved and I have only been a true follower since November. Although I was baptized in April of 2006, I am just now learning all about Christ.

My parents did not attend church hardly at all during my life. My mom's sister and my grandmother would take me, though, when we visited them in my hometown. I grew up with my mom and stepdad and halfsister, and from the time I was 12 years old all I wanted was to go "home". Home for me is Ellaville, GA and the church I love is Ebenezer Baptist. I can remember Bro. Jerry and Bro. Robert best (and of course my many family members that used to attend). All I knew was that this was the place I was meant to be. Situations and circumstance lead me to have psychological problems. (I thank God for them for I would not be the person I am today without them.) I've only ever had one "boyfriend" and he was a dear friend, but I realize today that that's all he will ever be to me. That's all he was meant to be. I don't drink and I haven't been kissed. I turn 21 next month and I would just be happy spending the day with my sisters. But my dear Ebenezer held revival this week, and my heart was meant to be changed.

On the last night, August 11, 2010, I went to the alter for the first time in my life. A few months ago, I was in a "rut" for about 4 days. I would cry without warning and I just let everything get to me. A special sister prayed with me and for me and I was out of my "rut" shortly. However, about a month ago, I noticed I would get emotional during invitaion. I would feel my heart strings pull and the tears coming, but coming from my family, I put on my happy face quickly and didn't let the tears fall. I had to work the first night of revival and the second I was in the nursry. Sunday morning, the first day, I noticed the pull was stronger. The tears were harder to keep back. Monday night, I happened to be calming an upset baby right at the time for invitation to come over the speakers. Tuesday night felt much like Sunday morning. But last night, Wednesday, the tears became so much I had to walk outside. Little did I know that God had put an angel outside to wait for me. I couldn't hold the tears back any longer and eventually that angel walked to the alter with me. She may never know how greatly she touched me, but I am so blessed just by her and her prayer. I would not have been able to put together the words God gave her, but I realized I have to fully submit to Christ for him to work in my life. Afterwords, my other sisters came to check on me and remind me how truly blessed I am to have them.

God has amazing things planned for me, although I have no clue what they will be. He also has things planned for you. If you aren't saved, I encourage you to go to church just one Sunday, or even just attened a Sunday School class. Just one. Take a no thank you "bite" of Christ. He will help you through anything He brings you too.

Thank You Father for the person reading this post. I pray that you will work in their life and encourage them. God, I thank you for the blessings you have brought me and the "ruts" you put me in, so that I may grow closer with you. God I pray that your will will continue to be done. In your wonderful name, Amen.