Brandyn Rubeck

I grew up in a Christian household and was actively involved in church from a young age. I attended a private Christian school, participated in mission trips, and was involved in youth camps and church activities.

After returning home from Iraq and completing my military service, I struggled with my mental health. I turned to drugs and alcohol, making them the center of my life. They became my idols. For more than a decade, I cycled in and out of jails, rehabs, and detox facilities.

After years of battling addiction, I found a 12-step program that gave me the gift of sobriety. During that time, I came to rely on a higher power, but I never called that power Jesus Christ.

I was resentful at God and questioned why He would allow me to endure such trials and where he had been during my darkest moments.

I often criticized Christians and argued against the existence of Jesus Christ.

About a year ago, I began attending GBC. I came with an open mind, but I was still skeptical and my heart remained hardened.

On Good Friday, I heard a sermon that has sat with me since then. Jason stated that our relationship with God is not transactional. For the first time, I understood that this relationship is based on His unconditional love and grace—not on a system of earning rewards or avoiding punishment. I want to glorify God through my daily actions, and I trust that He is beside me always.

1 Timothy 1:12-14 SAYS:

"I thank Him who has given me strength, Christ Jesus our Lord, because He judged me faithful, appointing me to His service, though formerly I was a blasphemer, persecutor, and insolent opponent. But I received mercy because I had acted ignorantly in unbelief, and the grace of our Lord overflowed for me with the faith and love that are in Christ Jesus."

This baptism does not save me. My personal faith in Jesus is what does. No one is beyond God's mercy. He has shown me grace, forgiveness, and a new life through Jesus Christ.