By Gretchen, who is getting baptized at the Ballard campus this Sunday
I've believed in Jesus, felt God's presence, and recognized the authority of God for as long as I can remember, but chose to live for myself instead. I lived a life of hypocrisy, fearing man more than God. I thought that if no one knew what I was doing, I wouldn't get hurt.
"Harmless" habits became destructive and I spiraled into a pit too deep to dig myself out of. Worshiping the gods of image and status, I thought that being skinny and getting attention from guys would get me through life smooth sailing, even if it meant eating disorders and mistreatment.
I became callous and used my suffering as an excuse to sin. Consumed by the wrongs committed against me, I failed to recognize the blackness of my own heart. I put up walls, refusing entry to anyone, God included.
Despite my disobedience and persistence to save and protect myself, He continued to pursue me and, in His grace and mercy, rescued me. He has filled me with His love and peace that surpass my understanding.
My identity no longer comes from my guilt, experiences, or image. I am a daughter of God and my worth comes solely from my identity in the one in whose image I was created, in the one who died for me: Jesus Christ.
I now recognize that He is not a part of my story; I am a part of His (Matt. 10:38–39).