Dear Susanna,

Confession time. Some days I feel like such a fake. I put on my "A Game" face and act like everything is okay when inside I am really crumbling. I want to be a real Christian. How do I do it? There is so much I don't know. Where do I begin?

Forlorn Faith

Dear Forlorn,

First thing you need to realize is that you are making progress! You can start by celebrating the fact that you want your relationship with Jesus to be more. Stop beating yourself up because you are not perfect. None of us are. Despite our imperfections, Jesus Christ still loves us! He died a painful death on the cross for our sins, so that we can have a relationship with God Almighty. Romans 5:11 "So now we can rejoice in our wonderful new relationship with God -- all because of what our Lord Jesus Christ has done for us in making us friends of God." 

You asked what to do, and I would recommend that you start with prayer. You talking to God, sharing your love and admiration; confessing your sins and hurts; and praying for others. Ask a trusted friend to pray for you, too. Keep coming to church when you can, or watch the services on line. Spend time in your Bible and with a good devotional. Find a Christian buddy that you can reach out to and talk about life. Think positive! Think beyond my cup is half full. Remember with Jesus your cup overflows!

You are a blessing to Jesus and to this church! Your faith will set you free!
Love & Prayers,

Susanna

Dear Susanna,

I saw the article in the newsletter about the Celebration Center. I think it is a great idea! I wish we had thought of doing this earlier. So exactly what is it we need to do to get something included in the newsletter?

Letty Meeno

Dear Letty,

We wish we had thought of it earlier, too! It will be a great way to celebrate new grandchildren or babies, new jobs, retirements, special anniversaries or birthdays, and more! The important part here is that you let Gayle know, so she can include the information. Send her an email at ggernand@gmail.com telling her what you want to celebrate. Send a picture along with it, and she will do her best to include it in the next newsletter. Have items to her by the 15th of the month. Remember, if you don't tell her, she won't know! Help us spread the love!

Love & Prayers,

Susanna

"Dear Susanna" is a feature of the YUMC monthly newsletter. Susanna Wesley never preached a sermon, published a book, or founded a church, yet Susanna Wesley is known as the Mother of Methodism. The example of faith and religious reverence she set for her children John and Charles inspired them to become powerful spiritual leaders, and to launch the Methodist movement.