But isn't Church boring?
I was 17, had just started a career and was enjoying a life of cars, money and friends. But the 'God thing' remained in the background. Not that I ever went to church - far from it. I couldn't believe anyone would want to go. Yet how could I deny the evidence of design in nature all around me? I felt uneasy. As if God were there, but that acknowledging him would mean a life of boredom and irrelevance in some dusty church.
Doubting my beliefs
Meeting a Christian at work who spoke about knowing Jesus (as well as a love for motorbikes!), was anything but boring, he began to dismantle my preconceived ideas about Christians and stirred a desire within to find out more.
Meeting his friends that first Sunday challenged my beliefs about church. I saw something in these people that I didn't have, beyond the friendship, honesty and trust, and after 3 or 4 weeks I asked about it. The last piece of the jigsaw fell into place.
Making more sense
Although I knew Jesus died on a cross for the 'sins of the world' and I'd heard he'd come back to life again 3 days later, what I didn't realise was that he died for me. He took the rap for the things I'd done wrong - things that separated me from God - so I could be forgiven. I had a choice. I could say thank you, or stuff you.
As I drove home it all began to make more sense. How could I continue to ignore him? I asked God to forgive me. I thanked Jesus for dying for me, and asked him to help me start again.
he's changed me life
That night I began a brand new relationship with Jesus Christ. My attitudes and habits began to change as my life centred less on myself and more on him. Joining a church who knew Jesus and cared for each other was the obvious next step. Like being a member of a large family!
Looking back, some years on now, that night in my room something happened that quite literally changed my life. Dusty religion still turns me off, but knowing Jesus really is alive and with me through the good and bad times makes sense of life, brings confidence, and assures me I don't ever need to go it alone.
I'd love to tell you more ...
