Why I Follow

Introduction

Fifteen years ago, I made a choice that reshaped my life. Like any relationship, my journey with Jesus has been a mix of highs and lows, filled with moments of deep questioning. “Why do I follow Jesus?” has become a question I revisit constantly. Is it habit, fear, or a sincere call to transformation? Today, I want to share the lessons I have learned from following Him — how He healed my brokenness, shaped my purpose, and challenged me to live authentically.

Early Faith and the Hidden Heart

I did not grow up fully in church. Around age seven, my mom began taking us regularly. My early memories include preaching from an imaginary pulpit and watching her midweek studies. I learned to look the part — to be the “good Christian kid” — but inside, I was hiding anger, bitterness, and a growing addiction. My “goodness” was a mask covering parts of myself I did not want anyone to see.

A Turning Point: Losing My Grandfather

At 19, I lost my grandfather, the father figure I leaned on. His sudden death left me shattered, face-to-face with mortality in a way I had never experienced. I spiraled, trying to numb my grief with parties, alcohol, and indulgence, but the pain did not fade. I realized, for the first time, how deeply lost I was and that nothing on earth could fill the void. Desperately, I began seeking God.

Finding Jesus: The Transformation Begins

During my first year at community college, I met a student named Gary who invited me to a Bible study. I agreed, thinking I had nothing to lose. In that study, I encountered scriptures that cut to my core. Galatians 5:19-21 and Ecclesiastes 12:13-14 exposed the reality of my heart. My sin was a choice — one that separated me from God and everyone around me. I began to see my anger, bitterness, and addictions as symptoms of a deeper need for Jesus.

After several bible studies and a week of soul-searching, I made the decision to follow Him. On February 4, 2009, I was baptized, marking the start of a journey that would shape every aspect of my life.

Why I Follow Jesus: The Drive to Make an Impact

My desire to follow Jesus is rooted in wanting to make a true and lasting impact. Even before I fully knew God, I wanted my life to leave a mark — to improve others' lives and create positive change. I pursued leadership roles, like my work for the Obama campaign in 2008, and strived to inspire my sports teams and coworkers to be better. Yet, despite my efforts, I realized that no amount of hard work or influence could match the eternal impact Jesus made and continues to make. Jesus’ life — lived with humility, love, and sacrifice — has affected billions over millennia. That is the type of impact I want to be part of. By following Jesus, I know I can make a difference that transcends my lifetime, impacting others in ways only God can empower. This conviction keeps me rooted in Him, guiding my actions and aligning my purpose with something far greater than myself.

The Impact of Following Jesus

• Transformation in Relationships: Before Christ, my relationships were superficial and transactional. Now, they are grounded in love, patience, and authenticity. Spiritual mentors walked with me, teaching me how to live out my faith. I have learned to support others genuinely and to value each relationship as an opportunity to reflect Christ’s love.

• Self-Control and Integrity: Discipleship called me to a standard I once ignored — purity and integrity. It was not an easy shift. I faced work situations where standing up for what was right meant going against the flow, but I held on to Jesus as my guide. Learning to say no to old habits has given me freedom and clarity I could not achieve on my own.

Purpose and Mission: Before following Jesus, my goals revolved around success and comfort. Now, my life is driven by a mission that transcends personal gain: reaching out, making disciples, and helping others experience God’s love. Each day, I strive to embody His teachings and inspire others to seek a life of meaning beyond what this world offers.

Ecclesiastes 12:13-14 - “Now all has been heard; here is the conclusion of the matter: Fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the whole duty of man. For God will bring every deed into judgment, including every hidden thing, whether it is good or evil.”

Overcoming Doubts and Staying Anchored

Following Jesus has not been without challenges. There were seasons when I questioned my faith or felt tempted to return to the old ways. I even stepped away for a time, only to realize that life without God led me nowhere. Returning to Jesus, I found not judgment but grace, and that grace has kept me anchored. Scripture and prayer have become my compass, guiding me through uncertainty and reminding me of the peace only God can provide.

Encouragement to Seek Jesus

If you are reading this and searching for something more, I want to encourage you: Jesus offers a path to a fulfilled life. It does not require perfection but an open heart and willingness to grow. His teachings can lead us out of brokenness, offering hope, purpose, and peace that nothing else can provide.

Mark 12:28-31 - “One of the teachers of the law came and heard them debating. Noticing that Jesus had given them a good answer, he asked him, ‘Of all the commandments, which is the most important?’ ‘The most important one,’ answered Jesus, ‘is this: ‘Hear, O Israel, the Lord our God, the Lord is one. Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.’ The second is this: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no commandment greater than these.”

Conclusion

Looking back, I am grateful for every trial and every moment of grace that brought me to this point. Following Jesus has not just changed me — it has given me a mission, a family of faith, and a purpose that goes beyond myself. My hope is that, as you read my story, you will be encouraged to seek God and experience the life-changing power that Jesus offers to each of us.