Good News from the Yogyakarta Congregation - Michael

Michael, a civil engineering student at one of Yogyakarta’s universities, is the third of four siblings. The wide age gap between him and his two older siblings meant Michael was pampered in the family. Whatever he wanted was always available without having to wait long.

Without realizing it, he applied this habit to his friendships. Michael only wanted to be friends with people who could fulfill his wishes or benefit him. As a result, he had only a few friends and did not easily trust other people.

Michael’s introduction to the GKDI Yogyakarta congregation began with an invitation to hang out from his high school friends, Finsen and Yoga. Through them, Michael got to know several brothers. The warm welcome he received at that time made him feel comfortable and willing to come to the next meeting.

The second time they met, Michael received a birthday surprise from the brothers. That moment moved him deeply because he had never experienced that kind of family atmosphere and sharing of feelings.

On February 23, 2018, Michael began taking Bible Study. His journey was not smooth because he had his own understanding of Christianity. When what he knew differed from what the Bible taught, Michael considered his understanding to be more correct. He questioned many things during his study, what churchmeans, why one must be baptized, and why there is no speaking in tongues in the worship service, and so on.

To get answers, he spent time with his friend, Finsen, as well as the other brothers . They shared with him their faith journeys, how they overcame their struggles, and what changes they experienced after becoming disciples of Jesus. Seeing how God changed their lives made Michael want to know Jesus more deeply.

As he entered the study about sin, Michael found that his life was far from the truth. Even though he was born into a Christian family, his life did not reflect the character of a disciple of Christ. His understanding of quiet time was still shallow, and he did not understand the meaning of God’s word in his life.

When studying about the cross, Michael came to realize that he was unworthy before God. All this time he had ignored Jesus, who loved him so much that He was willing to bear his sins on the cross. Jesus’ sacrifice led Michael to decide to live in righteousness, and on September 18, 2018, he decided to be baptized.

For Michael, living as a disciple of Jesus changed him into a better person. Now he is no longer selective in choosing friends. All people are God’s creation, and he ought to love them regardless of who they are.

In addition, Michael became more patient and no longer demanded that his wishes be fulfilled immediately. He also became more humble, willing to accept input from anyone because he realized that every rebuke is for his own good.

Michael is grateful to receive a new life and a community where he can grow in a positive way. He has friends who sincerely love and support him to become a better person. Above all, Michael is grateful for all of God’s goodness. Because of that, he is active in Campus Ministry serving on the documentation team, sit in study, and as a member of the usher team during worship services.

In January 2019, Michael graduated with cum laude. For him, that achievement was solely by God’s help and the support of his friends in the ministry. The life of a disciple is an inspiration, and Michael promises to keep striving to give inspiration to others for the glory of God’s name. Amen.