AMANDA’S STORY: NOW IS MY TIME

“Pastor Bob, if there is ever any way my story is able to help, I would love to save someone many unnecessary years of agony.” Amanda’s agony was a painful part of her past and a redemptive part of her future.

Amanda explained why obeying Jesus and being baptized are important to her. This was a determined and deeply emotional choice for her.

Amanda’s Story

Amanda’s story is what our invitation at North Pointe to “come as you are” is all about.

“I grew up with an alcoholic father. He abused me for many years. My teenage years were a mess of crystal meth, crime, rape, abusive relationships and abortion. I was a young single mom, with an addiction to Oxycontin and dillatas.  I was an escort/massage parlour worker for six years.

Most of my years have felt like I was selling my soul.

I accepted Jesus into my heart when I was a youth. My grandmother Priscilla influenced my decision for Jesus. She had that good influence on all of her grandchildren.

From Light to Darkness to Light

Since doing so I’ve spent many years straying away. I’ve lived in a dark, broken, empty place – consumed by guilt, shame and anger.  There are so many things that I’ve done that are just plain wrong, bad and awful.

I would like to believe that my life has not been what it has for nothing. I know trying to get people to go straight and transform their life and believe in something they cannot see is a task and a half.

For the first time in my life now, coming to church with my husband and my children, I am at a place where I see this beautiful light. I feel forgiveness. I feel loved. I’m feeling compassion for people.

Why Baptism?

Why do I want to be baptized? Because I know now is my time. I am now ready to let God know I love him as much as He has loved me during everything.

My guilt is gone; my shame is gone; everything is just gone and it’s getting better. I really want to keep going with faith.

Changes in my life? My husband and my children are now coming to church. I am attending church with my other family members. It has brought us closer together. We’re praying at night. My children are learning the great things of God.

My life, just since coming to North Pointe, has become such a beautiful thing. I am where I need to be.

I am where all of these years my heart has longed to be.

So today I’m going to be baptized because now is my time.”

Believer’s Baptism

Believer’s baptisms are front-and-center, public celebrations and Amanda’s was exactly that!

We call them “believer’s baptisms” because they’re a declaration of faith that Jesus died and was raised from the dead.

Those baptized testify, “I believe what Jesus did applies to me.  I am identifying with Jesus in his death and resurrection as my Savior and God. I’m going to follow Jesus.”

Vulnerability

Amanda sharing her story is the epitome of vulnerability. Its in being vulnerable that we are strongest. Read “14 Freeing Quotes About Vulnerability”

Please leave a comment for Amanda below. Thank you.

Hope grows here.  We share stories that inspire people, build faith, and offer lasting purpose.

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