The Next Generation: Raised to Life!
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February 01, 2024
Two weeks ago, we had the sweetest, most JOYFUL round of baptisms! It was an incredible start to the year, and such an exciting reminder of God's goodness. What was so remarkable though, was how many of our NextGen students stepped out in faith to publicly declare that their life has been transformed by Jesus.
There is a saying: "one act of kindness sparks another." Which is true, and so lovely. But in this case, one NextGen student stepping out confidently to get baptized sparks dozens more to make the same choice. The complete JOY of the Lord was so present in each of these young people's lives and testimonies. I want to share a few with you! I would also challenge you, and ask that you seriously consider, making prayer over the next generation a part of your daily routine. The Lord is moving in mighty ways in the younger generations, and we have a responsibility to cover them in prayer, and seek the Lord right along with them.
So let's hear some of these amazing testimonies, and let's celebrate the next generation of Jesus followers!
"My life before Jesus felt empty, and I felt like I was going through the motions. It seemed like every Christian I met was just happier, and I wanted that! So I prayed and talked to my mom about getting baptized. I decided to open my heart to Jesus Christ at the beginning of the school year because I wanted joy. After accepting Jesus Christ as my savior I wake up every morning with a positive attitude and an open mind. At least, I try my best."
"Before Jesus, sin made my life harder. I'd feel sad when I did something I wasn't supposed to do. I started to read my Bible more and listen to stories about Jesus and how he helped people when they were down. He really cares about us and it made me feel happy. Now I trust him wherever I go and I'll follow Him forever."
"I have grown up knowing Jesus loves me. But I didn’t know what that meant until now. And now I know I love him too and want to show everyone that I am a child of God. I asked Jesus into my heart at VBS this summer. I feel loved and want to show others God’s love too."
"I wanted Jesus in my heart so he could help me follow directions. On Nov. 5th, 2023, I was watching church from home with my mommy and brother (and Lola - our dog), and I asked about Jesus being in my heart. My mommy and brother talked to me and walked me through the salvation prayer. God helps me to walk in His way and protects me. I’m so excited to be baptized today."
"Before Jesus, I felt like there was something missing. Like there was a big hole in my chest that I couldn’t fill. During this last summer, I found Jesus and was saved on my 15th birthday). My salvation has impacted me in ways I could never explain, and the Creek has allowed some great memories and connections in my walk in faith, and I’m so excited to make much more."
"Jeremiah's life before accepting Jesus was ordinary. Normal ups and downs as a 6 year old developing and changing. He did things for others to be a good person and in hopes he'd get a reward - he would say, "I am 6 after all". In December, we were mid-way through Luke chapter 4 when Jeremiah stopped me and said he wanted to give his life to Jesus. We talked about what that meant, and with a full momma we prayed together. God reassured me that He had him and I didn't have to worry about "doing it exactly right.”. We then prayed together while he admitted he makes mistakes and asked for forgiveness, he declared that he believes in Jesus, and confessed that he is in need of help. Jeremiah's life changed at that moment! He has always had a shining spirit, but there's a meaning behind it now as he committed to following Christ. As Jeremiah would say, "It's not all about the treats, it's about helping others" in Jesus name!"
"Jesus has always been a part of my home. Before, I felt like something was missing, and since accepting Jesus into my heart, the empty feeling isn’t there. I’ve been learning so much about Jesus in CreeKids, and have been building my relationship with Jesus. When I saw other CreeKids get baptized last time, I felt that excitement and knew it was the right choice for me to get baptized. I feel so happy and excited. I’m ready to live life with Jesus as my friend and let his light shine through me. I’m ready to be who He calls me to be and to do what He has called me to do."
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