Previous Challenge Entry (Level 4 – Masters)
Topic: New Patch/New Wine - Old Garment/Bottle (Matthew 9:16-17, Mark 2:21-22, Luke 5:36-39} (01/04/24)
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TITLE: Just As I Am Becoming | Previous Challenge Entry
By Donna Powers
01/07/24 -
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I promised you I'd write and let you know how things are going at college. You know I don't want to be here, but I also know that this Bible college was the only college you'd pay for. So, I'm here. I promised you I'd go to church at least once a month. I don't see the point. I've seen the way Christians at your church act, and you know I can't act that way.
Anyway, I saw a poster for a student-led church service next Saturday night. I'll go to that, I guess. A promise is a promise.
I love you both and am sorry I let you down in the church department. But it's just not me.
Love, Alicia
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Hey, Mom and Dad,
So, I went to the church service. It sure was different than the services at your church. The music was much more like the stuff I like, and the kids talked a lot about Jesus, yet it didn't seem as stuffy and boring as it does at your church. They talked about how we're all sinners, and I've surely heard plenty of that from you guys.
But…I don't know. There's something different in the way they act. When they talk about Jesus, they speak about His kindness and acceptance. They act like they live that kindness, too. Well, I can get into that.
Here's a surprise, Mom and Dad. I think I'll go back next week.
Love, Alicia
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Hey, Mom and Dad,
So, I went to church again.
Don't get all nuts and stuff, but I asked Jesus into my heart last night. I was surprised, but when the kid who spoke talked about God's grace as a free gift, it seemed so cool. At the end, they sang a song called "Just as I Am." I went up to the front, and two other girls prayed with me. It didn’t feel as weird as I would have expected.
If what they say is true, and Jesus really loves me just like I am, then I can't see why I shouldn't accept this.
This may have been what you wanted, Mom and Dad. So, thanks.
Love and hope, Alicia
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Dear Mom and Dad,
I don't know what I expected when I asked Jesus into my heart. I didn't turn into an instant saint, that's for sure. But I do feel differently – although I can't explain how.
Well, for one thing, I decided to go to a Bible study some of the kids are having. The words in the Bible they're using sound different than those stuffy words you always quote. Are there two kinds of Bibles? I don't know – but, suddenly, I am open to hearing more about Jesus.
I guess I don't mind Bible College so much anymore. But don't think this means I'm perfect or I'm gonna be a missionary. So, chill, OK?
Love you lots,
Alicia.
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Dear Mom and Dad,
I'm learning a lot from the Bible study, and I look forward to talking to you about all this next week when I come home for break. This past week, the church group went to the Rescue Mission. I admit I wasn't looking forward to that. I mean… bums? What did I want with a bunch of unemployed drunks and bums?
But the next thing I knew, I was listening to their stories. I didn't pity or look down on them – and that's different than I would have felt before learning how Jesus loves everyone and that we're supposed to love everyone for His sake.
I don't understand half the things I think and do anymore. Don't worry; I haven't lost it. I listen more in class; I'm studying, and I'll make good grades. But I don't care so much about partying (even though Millie and Judy think I'm snubbing them), Suddenly, I feel like I'm seeing opportunities to be kind everywhere I look.
For example, now – at the Rescue Mission. All I'm doing now is peeling carrots and potatoes. But I feel like that simple action is somehow charged with the desire I've somehow caught to do what I can for God.
Please explain this, Mom and Dad.
Much love and blessings, Alicia.
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