Autumn Elkins

I was baptized when I was thirteen by my Dad, Andy Elkins. Through this I announced my belief in Jesus Christ. I was raised in church and always believed in the stories I was told on Sunday School and closed my little eyes when it was time to pray. I tried my best to be kind and to do what I was told. But I struggled with feeling his presence and being confident in my faith. I knew Jesus died for me but how could he do that if I’m nothing but awkward Autumn that doesn’t know how to talk to anyone? I didn’t understand how a man so perfect could love a much less than perfect girl like me. But that all changed when I went with my youth group to The Passion Play. I had been once before with my grandmother but honestly it scared me. I was confused and very sad that an innocent man was beaten just because a couple of guys didn’t like him. I didn’t understand it. But the night I went with the youth group it was like my eyes were uncovered. As I thought of Jesus hanging on that cross for my sin I couldn’t help of cry with tears of joy and despair. He loved me enough to die for me. At the end of the play the pastor of the church asked for anyone who had felt God knocking on their heart that night to stand up. I struggled to stand to my feet as if I was had someone pulling me to sit back down. But I stood. As soon as I stood I felt a weight come off of my shoulders. After that night I longed to grow closer to God and to live each day for him. I’ve had rough days where I fall short but I know that Jesus didn’t die so I could be perfect he died so I could be saved by a perfect man who knows all my failures but still wants me to be beside him in heaven. I’ve overcome so many so many of my fears sense that night and give God all the glory!! Thank you Jesus! 

Take heart I have overcome the world. John16:33