ARTIST: MADISON MORTENSEN ARTIST STATEMENT
AUTHOR: MACKLIN AYERS
HOST BUSINESS: NED SMITH CENTER FOR NATURE & ART
A singular word that can be used to describe my life is FAITH. It is so much more than just a five letter word. I grew up in the Church, but then came across some turbulent times. My parents divorced when I was about ten years old and my sister was six. At this time, my life as I knew it, was shaken. Suddenly I did not seem to have a purpose, and I think this feeling came from me not knowing which Church to attend to worship. I was so angry with my life and wondered if this was what I deserved. But then, I made a choice that turned my life around and it was one of the most important things I have done.
I chose to have faith in God. I started going to a Church in my local town, not knowing what to expect, but just hoping to further my faith. I received much more than I can ever return. One of my goals in Christianity was always to be confirmed. My pastor immediately challenged me to further my faith and become confirmed and, and I did that. I came across a bible verse that has helped me take my faith to a new level. This verse pertains to everything in life; for me it pertained to a huge part of my life which is family and athletics, along with everything else. Philippians 4:13: “I can do all this through him who gives me strength”. This verse goes hand in hand with faith. No matter what happens, have faith that God is with you, He is the sole reason you can do anything. I found myself furthering my faith everywhere, from praying daily, to reading devotionals and the Bible every night.
This faith that I had in God, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit is what changed my life, and I live everyday trying to do as much as I can to spread God’s word, glorify His holy name, and love him with my whole being; this is what turned my life around, and I know that it can do the same for so many others. The best part is, there is no earning your salvation, or love with God, this is all given to you, the only thing you must do is have faith.