Evolving as a Christian

 I've been a part of this church for about 7 years now. I came to Jarnigan Chapel when I was about 8 and I didn't really understand Jesus and the plan of salvation. I was just a kid that enjoyed Sunday School and playing tag after the services in the parking lot. I knew the name Jesus and comprehended that I needed something called salvation. One night at Bible school I accepted Jesus into my life and was 'saved.' At the age of 8, I still didn't understand Jesus and the Bible, or all the crazy miracles mentioned. As I began to grow older, maturing a little at a time, I started doing things I had not ever thought about doing. Raising my hand in youth choir, testifying every once in a while, praying, and reading my Bible. I felt like a Christian that was striving in the right direction. But I also felt as if I was doing God a favor by glorifying him. However, now that I'm almost 16, I realize how little we compare to him. No amount of hand raising or Bible reading could come close to the amount of love God shows us daily. Not just love. His mercy, His grace, all His time, His patience, His sweet peace. All those things are benefits of my salvation, and although I might strive to repay Him, nothing I ever do or say will compare to God's compassion and love towards His own. God is all powerful and all mighty. I don't deserve Him, or any of His perfect qualities, but He gives them to me unconditionally and I thank Him for that. 

-Leah, 15 years old