"I gave up on church"

"I gave up on the church. I didn't want to know Jesus through others anymore," Daniela shared (photo: middle).

"Eventually though, more and more feelings of guilt and shame came into the picture.

Fast forward to grad school, I saw it as a fresh start. Nervously, I started showing up to the grad community [of Cru].

Later Cru was offering a spring break trip to Bosnia...I signed up. But I didn't feel worthy and almost backed out of the trip.

On this mission trip I met Gabrijela. She shared that she felt too far-gone to be forgiven; she felt burdened by guilt and shame.

I saw myself in Gabrijela.

I shared my story and the gospel with her...through tears, she decided to trust Christ!

The next day we met up again and read the Bible together. She looked like a completely new person...she felt free."

Reflecting on the year, Daniela summarized her experience by saying:

"I came into the year burdened by feelings of guilt shame, unworthiness, and loneliness. Today I felt the most free I've ever felt."

Read more of Daniela's story and her experience in Bosnia:

"I gave up on church"

Thank you for the ministry that you make possible.

Sincerely,

-Aaron & Sarah

NOTE FROM DANIELA:

"Dear Aaron and Sarah,

Meeting you this year has been such a blessing. You've quickly become like family to me! ...I've learned a lot from you and your passion for sharing the gospel is truly admirable. Thank you for your guidance and encouragement...I can see Jesus in you and I'm grateful that he's used you in my life."