From my earliest years, faith was the cornerstone of our family life. Thanks to my mother's early embrace of Christianity, our home was like a small church. If I had to describe the atmosphere in one phrase, it would be 'overwhelmingly Christian'.
Every morning, I'd wake to the sound of my mother's prayers, and we'd say grace before each meal. The Bible was our family guidebook, and Jesus' teachings were the model we strived to follow. Growing up in this environment, I naturally internalized these religious values.
This influence persisted through my college years. Even amidst the liberal campus atmosphere, I always tried to live according to God's will. At times it felt burdensome, but it also served as a moral compass, guiding my life decisions.
Interestingly, this seed of faith greatly influenced my academic interests. I initially chose literature as my major, but gradually felt drawn to theology, eventually making it my second major. This wasn't mere academic curiosity; it was a desire to deeply explore the values that formed the foundation of my life.
Looking back, I realize this lifelong journey of faith has been a great blessing. It's become more than just religious belief; it's a fundamental worldview that gives direction and meaning to my life.
Through this experience, I've learned the importance of cherishing one's roots and values. Whether religious, philosophical, or family traditions, such fundamental beliefs add depth and meaning to our lives. Of course, our thoughts and beliefs can change over time. But I believe it's crucial to respect and learn from the core values that have shaped us, even as we evolve.
This journey of faith has profoundly influenced every aspect of my life. Particularly when I later became a pastor, the foundation of faith I'd built since childhood became a great source of strength. It wasn't just religious knowledge, but an attitude of seeking God's will in every moment of life.
Moreover, this experience has given me a deep understanding and empathy for others' faith journeys. I've learned that everyone's religious experience is unique, and I've come to appreciate the value of the doubts, conflicts, joys, and moments of gratitude that come with it. This insight has been invaluable in my pastoral work, helping me understand and support my congregation.
I've realized that faith can't be forced; it grows through individual choice and experience. The seed of faith planted by my parents took time, experience, personal struggle, and reflection to grow into a sturdy tree within me. Through this process, I've personally experienced what true faith means and how it can transform a person's life.
Ultimately, my faith journey has influenced every area of my life, shaping my values and determining the direction of my life. I believe this journey is ongoing. Every day, through new insights and challenges, my faith continues to grow, enriching my life and making it more meaningful.
Every morning, I'd wake to the sound of my mother's prayers, and we'd say grace before each meal. The Bible was our family guidebook, and Jesus' teachings were the model we strived to follow. Growing up in this environment, I naturally internalized these religious values.
This influence persisted through my college years. Even amidst the liberal campus atmosphere, I always tried to live according to God's will. At times it felt burdensome, but it also served as a moral compass, guiding my life decisions.
Interestingly, this seed of faith greatly influenced my academic interests. I initially chose literature as my major, but gradually felt drawn to theology, eventually making it my second major. This wasn't mere academic curiosity; it was a desire to deeply explore the values that formed the foundation of my life.
Looking back, I realize this lifelong journey of faith has been a great blessing. It's become more than just religious belief; it's a fundamental worldview that gives direction and meaning to my life.
Through this experience, I've learned the importance of cherishing one's roots and values. Whether religious, philosophical, or family traditions, such fundamental beliefs add depth and meaning to our lives. Of course, our thoughts and beliefs can change over time. But I believe it's crucial to respect and learn from the core values that have shaped us, even as we evolve.
This journey of faith has profoundly influenced every aspect of my life. Particularly when I later became a pastor, the foundation of faith I'd built since childhood became a great source of strength. It wasn't just religious knowledge, but an attitude of seeking God's will in every moment of life.
Moreover, this experience has given me a deep understanding and empathy for others' faith journeys. I've learned that everyone's religious experience is unique, and I've come to appreciate the value of the doubts, conflicts, joys, and moments of gratitude that come with it. This insight has been invaluable in my pastoral work, helping me understand and support my congregation.
I've realized that faith can't be forced; it grows through individual choice and experience. The seed of faith planted by my parents took time, experience, personal struggle, and reflection to grow into a sturdy tree within me. Through this process, I've personally experienced what true faith means and how it can transform a person's life.
Ultimately, my faith journey has influenced every area of my life, shaping my values and determining the direction of my life. I believe this journey is ongoing. Every day, through new insights and challenges, my faith continues to grow, enriching my life and making it more meaningful.
