Chayne Sauders

I began my confirmation career about 3 years ago here in Lone Wolf, but was unable to finish my classes before I left for college. Since then I have either been in Kansas at college or traveling during the summer playing baseball, which has kept me from returning home to finish my classes. Then came my elbow problems requiring me to have surgery. At first, I was not happy. I had worked hard to make it where I was in my baseball career, and now I had to put in on hold. However, the Bible tells us in Romans 8:28, "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him." 

When I found out that I had to have elbow surgery this summer, I thought it would be a great time to finish my classes. Wow! God really does take what we perceive as bad and use them for good! I asked Kevin if he knew who to talk to so I could finish my classes. He told me to talk to BJ, because they were having a "Confirmation Camp" this summer at the Altus church. BJ, Mona, and Shannon arranged for me to get into the camp. This week of camp has been a learning experience for me; I have grown spiritually and mentally. I have had a lot fun with Pastor Ronald, BJ, Shannon, Laura, and Lisa (these were my fellow classmates).

During this week we have studied many things. On Wednesday, we were studying the Fourth Petition of the Lord’s Prayer: "Thy will be done on Earth as it is in Heaven". As we continued in our study we encountered Matthew 6:34 which says, "Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own." This verse really spoke to my heart and will be my focus for today.

Since jumping off the page at me, this verse has been with me ever since. I am one who is always worrying about what is going to happen instead of what is happening. This verse assures me that the things that I need everyday will be provided from the Lord, so there is no need for me to worry about tomorrow, as Scripture tells me: "Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life" (Matthew 6:27)? What can I change tomorrow if I do not make it through today? If I was to worry about a baseball game that we have tomorrow instead of getting mentally focused for the game I have to play today, then I would not do good in the game that I have to play today. I have to discipline myself to take one day at a time, relying on the Lord to lead me in every aspect of my life.

Through this class I have learned a lot of new things, and how cool BJ is!!! I am glad that I will finally be officially a Lutheran. I know that this is only the beginning of my understanding of the Christian faith, and I look forward to continue growing and maturing in my faith. I ask that you will all continue to pray for me as I face the challenges that life will throw at me everyday. I know that through your prayers and my own, God will give me the strength to endure everything life throws at me.