My Journey to Faith: From Moral Upbringing to Authentic Christianity

Growing up in what I thought was a Christian household in Michigan, I soon realized that the labels we give to our beliefs might not always accurately reflect our true convictions. Looking back, I see that my parents' approach to spirituality was more about morality than Christianity. We didn't attend church regularly, nor did I witness my parents reading the Bible. While we prayed before meals and attended occasional weddings or events at a church, my upbringing was centered around a sense of right and wrong.

Reflecting on my childhood, I now understand that my parents' intention was to allow my siblings and me to choose our own path when it came to faith. My mother's Baptist upbringing and my father's Catholic background led them to encourage us to find our own way. Despite this, my early years were marked by a fundamental belief in God. It wasn't a conscious decision; I just knew in my heart that there was a higher power. However, my understanding of what it truly meant to be a Christian remained incomplete. My upbringing lacked the guidance and discipleship that often accompanies a deep Christian faith. I realized later that I had been living a moral life, but I hadn't fully embraced the teachings of Jesus Christ.

My journey took a significant turn in 2008 when my father passed away. It was during this period of loss and introspection that I truly began to delve into my faith. My relationship with God deepened, and I discovered a new sense of purpose and understanding. This marked the true beginning of my Christian journey, despite my lifelong belief in God.
I started a blog titled "Prodigal Daughter: Finding Authentic Christianity" to share my experience and insights. This platform became a way for me to reach out to others who might be navigating a similar path. I believe that many individuals, both men and women, might find themselves in a similar situation—believing in God but not fully comprehending what it means to be a follower of Christ.
As a 53-year-old woman, I've come to terms with the realization that my upbringing, though rooted in a sense of morality, didn't fully align with the teachings of Christianity. This awareness has been both humbling and liberating. Through my blog, I hope to connect with others who are on a similar journey of self-discovery and spiritual growth. Just as the prodigal son in the Bible found his way back home; I believe that this also applies to daughters; I'm discovering the richness of an authentic Christian relationship—one that goes beyond labels and touches the heart.

In sharing my story, I aim to inspire and uplift those who are seeking a deeper connection with God. No matter our age or background, the journey of faith is a personal one, and it's never too late to embark on the path of authentic Christianity.