For Ava, a careful investigation of Christianity and an intellectual search for answers became a moment of surrender.
1. What first sparked your curiosity about Jesus or the Christian faith?
When my son was born, I began taking him to church. During a sermon led by a friend’s husband, I felt prompted to look into Christianity for myself. He is a well-educated, grounded man, and I genuinely couldn’t understand how someone like him found logic in Christ. I had always assumed faith was more about comfort than reasoning. But the more I listened, the more I realised my dismissal had been lazy. If I was going to reject it, I needed to do so honestly, having properly examined it for myself.
2. Describe the moment when you decided to follow Jesus.
I reached the point where everything made sense from a theological and historical standpoint, but I was struggling to take the next step. Someone asked me to consider, “Did I want it to be true?” The honest answer was yes, but I did not want to turn to God in case it looked like I was only doing so because I was unwell at the time.
A sermon on Joseph in the pit reminded me that God meets people in low places. The belief that I could carry everything alone began to fall away. I realised I had been delaying, not because it was untrue, but because surrender felt costly. That was when I stopped resisting and finally prayed.
"The belief that I could carry everything alone began to fall away."
3. Who or what helped you as you explored faith?
I contacted one of the elders at the church I was attending, and he put me in touch with someone who helped me work through my questions. They were patient and reassuring. They never made me feel foolish. It gave me space to explore and grow at my own pace. There was no pressure and no agenda, just honest conversation. That safety gave me the confidence to keep exploring instead of stepping back.
4. What difference has following Jesus made in your life so far?
Following Jesus has opened my heart and engaged my mind in ways I did not expect. I am more aware of my need for grace. I am more honest about my flaws, more patient with others, and less afraid of my own weakness. I am still learning, but I am no longer searching alone.
5. What would you say to someone who is curious about Christianity today?
Investigate it for yourself. Don’t be afraid to ask questions.
*Ava’s name has been changed.
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