A childhood faith - Nomnotho Zulu

I first heard about Scripture Union during school assemblies when I was in junior primary. Various pastors would come in and tell us Bible stories through songs. I enjoyed listening to stories about David, Joseph, and Jesus, and singing songs like "Pharaoh Pharaoh," "Sweet Jesus," and "Father Abraham" just to name a few. Though we would listen attentively, my friends and I would be mischievous during song time. Growing up in a Christian home where my siblings and I were required to attend church by our parents, I was already interested in learning about God. However, no one had explained to me how to have a personal relationship with God.

As I progressed through junior school, I was given the opportunity to attend an SU camp in fifth grade. I didn't expect much from the camp, just a weekend with friends and some Bible stories and songs. I had no idea that God had something else in store for me. During the camp, I attended all the sessions and fully participated in all the activities. It was during one of the sessions where the presenter gave us an opportunity to learn more about Jesus that I was drawn to hear more about Him.

I chose to forsake my free time spent with my friends to go listen to a young man talk about Jesus, which was considered boring for a 10-year-old. He spoke about my sin and the separation it created between me and God. This was the first time I had heard that I was a sinner and separated from God because of sin. I felt my heart fill with pain and was eager to learn how I could get to God who loves me. He went on to explain that salvation comes through the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ. He drew two hills with a chasm between them, representing me on one hill and God on the other. He was trying to stress the separation between man and God. He continued to draw a cross as a bridge between the two hills and explained that it is only through the cross that we can reach God. It is by the grace we receive from the finished work of Christ. I felt a warmth in my heart as I sensed a glimmer of hope, there is a way to God! The young man proceeded to ask if we would like to accept Jesus Christ as our Lord and Saviour. To which I responded, yes! and it was as if light had entered my life. 22 years later, by the grace of God, I am still a Christian. Glory to God who has been faithful to keep me.