Fimiam Baptist Church

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Lesya Shevchuk

My name is Lesya. I was born into a typical Ukrainian family. I was an obedient child and was a beloved daughter in the family. Father loved me especially. He held my hand often and we walked in the city, visiting my favorite cafe. I also had a mother, grandmother and brother who took care of me. I was the youngest in the family and I had enough attention.

When I grew up, the relationship with my family changed. I could not understand it at that point of time, but now I understand the reason for our misunderstanding: I wanted one thing and they thought in another way. I quit asking for advice. As any teenager, I wanted to be an adult sooner and to decide everything by myself.

I thought that I was right all of the time, which resulted in misunderstanding. I had new friends who were changing very quickly. At that time, friendship was governed by interests, money and circumstances, but not by faithfulness. I realized that much later. I finished school and entered professional school. Sin was slowly chaining my body, penetrating my mind and swimming in my soul. I could not miss a holiday without alcohol, smoking and sometimes “weed”.

Later we understood that it is not necessary to wait until a holiday to enjoy life. Instead of flourishing in my young years, I was withering. Deep inside I understood that it was my life and it did not bring satisfaction even to me, but my conscience was silent. I was not clean. There was a void in my heart. Disappointments and pain left my soul in unrest. I cried more often, but one moment in my life gave me hope.

Once I heard about the One Who could change everything. I felt the burden of my life and saw young people whose lives were much different. They had what I was missing: peace, joy, aim, repentance and forgiveness. I also asked forgiveness for all my sins and Jesus forgave. Eight years have passed. My life has changed and I have purpose in life. I love my life and I am happy. I do not need to make my mood higher with artificial things or to pretend I am fine when I feel bad. I took off all my masks and learned to be myself. I have so much in Him, but the main I have is forgiveness and eternal life. I have good friends and their friendships have lasted through difficulties. I serve the Lord in Fimiam Church and rejoice in praising His name. God gave me a family where I feel safe. God gave me trust, love and understanding. It is cozy in my home because Jesus is the owner.

The Christian life is a journey to a beautiful country where Jesus is the president of the nation – God’s children have citizenship: “citizens of the heavenly Jerusalem.”

Be in a hurry!