I do not think I have ever thought much about why I am an Advent Christian until very recently. I was not raised Advent Christian. In fact, growing up, I was not even aware that there were numerous denominations. I blissfully went to church with my family in a large, mainstream denomination, unaware of the diversity outside of those denominational norms. I am appreciative of that time in my life because it was a period of peace and joy where I could build a foundation to know the Lord.

My introduction to the Advent Christian denomination came after I moved to Georgia. I met Travis Hutcheson while we were in high school. I knew I wanted to get to know him more. He was fun, kind and had similar morals and beliefs. Inviting me to church was a natural step for a pastor’s kid I guess, and as a way to spend more time with him, I agreed to go. This church was unlike any church I had ever been to. It was on a dirt road, it was tiny, and there was not even a sign out front. I was a little worried. However, I am so glad I went into that church. Stepping into that little white church began a wonderful introduction into the denomination I now call family. In that little white church, there was so much laughter. There were no spectacles. It was a family that loved the Lord and loved each other. There were no small groups divided up by age, gender and marital status. There was the Word and upbeat hymns. It was obviously not perfect, but it was beautiful, and I wanted to be a part of it all.

Shortly after high school, Travis and I married in that little white Vidalia Advent Christian church, and after just a few short weeks of marriage, Travis answered the call to pastoral ministry. He began the process of ordination where we learned so much about the origins of the Advent Christian denomination. We met with many pastors around the region, and I believe the small size of our denomination naturally lends itself to deep relationships being built. We met people from all over the world and were offered great advice and love. From Travis’s first mentor, Brent Ross, to all the wonderful people that continue to invest in us, we have experienced leadership that cares about our personal well-being and spiritual growth. We are more grounded in our faith, and our love for the Lord has flourished during our time in the denomination.

As I look back, I am able to see how God has moved and worked in amazing ways; never giving up on this sinner. I am so very grateful he has chosen me. He has chosen to save me, use me and he has placed me where I am, in this denomination, for his glory. In my gratefulness, I will continue to do the most good I can where I am. I will pray for the amazing leaders. I will pray for our precious church members. I will continue to listen, learn, grow and enjoy the beauty around me. Most importantly, I will continue to share the gospel as I go. I will delight in the growing of the kingdom as an Advent Christian as long as the Lord allows.