To me, Jesus is more than just a name in the Bible or someone people talk about in church—He is my Savior, my friend, and my source of strength. I’ve already faced some tough moments and challenges, and through all of them, Jesus has been the one constant I can always turn to. Even when life feels confusing, or when I don’t have everything figured out, Jesus gives me peace and reminds me that I’m never alone. “The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.” — Deuteronomy 31:8

I grew up hearing about Jesus in Sunday school and from my parents, but as I’ve gotten older, I’ve started to understand for myself who He really is. He isn’t just some far-away figure. Jesus is personal. He cares about what I’m going through—whether it’s a hard day at school, feeling left out by friends, or being stressed about my family. When I pray, I talk to Him like I would talk to someone who really gets me or sing—because He does. “Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.” — 1 Peter 5:7

I remember a specific time when I was really scared. My grandpa was very sick, and he wasn’t responding. I was overwhelmed with fear, thinking I was going to lose him. I didn’t know what to do, so I kept asking God, “Why?” over and over again. I felt so helpless. But in the middle of my confusion and fear, something hit me—this deep, calm feeling inside. I heard this gentle reassurance: "Charity, everything will be okay. Just pray, and everything will be okay. You're not going to lose him." It felt like God Himself was reminding me to trust Him and that He was in control. The peace that washed over me in that moment was incredible. It didn’t change everything instantly, but I knew that, no matter what, Jesus was with me and would see me through. “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” — Philippians 4:6-7

There was a time in my life when I faced a really big challenge that made it hard to forgive myself and others. I had made mistakes that affected both me and someone else, and it was hard to move past the guilt and shame. For months, I didn’t want to face reality or what I had done. I didn’t know how to deal with it. But one evening, during youth group, a church leader spoke about the importance of forgiveness. It was in that moment that I realized I needed to forgive myself and the other person involved. It wasn’t easy, but I knew it was something I had to do to move forward. Jesus’ grace and love reminded me that I wasn’t defined by my mistakes, and I could choose healing by forgiving. “Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” — Ephesians 4:32

One of the things that means the most to me about Jesus is His love. It’s not the kind of love that comes and goes depending on how I act or what I do. Jesus loves me no matter what. Even when I mess up or feel like I’m not enough, He’s still there, offering me grace and forgiveness. He died on the cross not just for the world in general, but for me personally. That truth gives me so much comfort. “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” — Romans 5:8

Jesus also gives me hope. When the world feels overwhelming, He reminds me that this isn’t all there is. He has a purpose for my life, even if I don’t always see it right away. He teaches me to be kind, to forgive, to have patience, and to love others the way He loves me. I want to be more like Him every day, even though I know I still have a lot to learn. “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.” — Jeremiah 29:11

In the end, Jesus is everything to me. He’s my guide, my comforter, my Savior, and the one who gives my life meaning. I know that with Jesus by my side, I can get through anything.