Elzabe – “Elders have always encouraged me to continue my studies!”
In 2007, the year I matriculated, the Lord turned my life completely upside down. From the age of 13, I had attended various churches on my own, but continued to find myself in an unending search for real Christianity. I so desired to live a life pleasing to the Lord, but found myself constantly under guilt, because I was unable to fulfil the laws and regulations preached in so many of the churches I attended. I could never understand why, unlike other members of these churches, I was not happy going to church. All I felt was condemned and confused. Finally, I began to lose hope in the Church.
As my final year began drawing to a close, I remained indecisive as to what I would study. My parents, being concerned about me, offered me the option of taking a gap year. It was not long after this time that the Lord, by His grace, did a miracle in my life. I can clearly remember the day that I stumbled into a Sunday meeting at Grace Gospel Church in Durban. Pastor Basil O’Connell-Jones preached the message of the cross, and I knew immediately that I was called to identify my life with Jesus Christ in his sufferings, his death, and his resurrection. During the weeks to follow I had the opportunity to meet Miki Hardy and Audrey Hardy, who were in South Africa for a conference. I was also able to meet many young people who were visiting from Mauritius. After hearing their testimonies, I made the decision to go to Mauritius. I really wanted to be with these zealous young people, who like me, had been touched by the Lord and wanted to surrender their lives to Him fully. I wasn’t disappointed, the Lord answered my prayer and I found myself surrounded by brothers and sisters on fire for the Lord. What grace!
Not long after arriving in Mauritius, I heard about the plans to build a new auditorium and offices for CTMI in Trianon. I got very excited about the idea of being involved in any way possible. When I discovered that the construction site was open to anyone who wanted to help, I was overjoyed, knowing that I could play my part in my free time. What an incredible year, working with young people with the same zeal in their heart to serve Jesus. No one instructed us to take part; but we willingly chose to be involved. I saw it as an opportunity to do something in return for everything that the Lord has given me. It was hard work, but I enjoyed it and will forever cherish the moments spent there with my brothers and sisters. I know that the relationships that I have formed with other young people during this time will last all my life.
In February 2010, I will commence my studies. I am extremely grateful to my parents, who are not only paying for my studies but continue to support me financially whilst here in Mauritius. I have decided to study Child Development, and am excited, as I have always wanted to work with children. I cannot recall, even once, someone mentioning not studying to me; on the contrary, the Elders and leaders of the church have always encouraged me to make the most of the gifts the Lord has given me, and to serve Jesus through everything that I do; whether it is studying, working or whatever it may be. The Lord has been so good to me, and I continue to trust Him for all that lies ahead.
Posted: April 5th, 2010 under Youth.