This ordinary takes her faith and passion of being a Christian very seriously. Perhaps you can say, “Amen” after reading her answers.

How and when were you introduced to Christianity?

I grew up as a Christian because my family is Christian. So I always went to church, Sunday schools, youth group, and now I am in EM (English Ministry). Through my parents I go to church.

Why do you identify yourself as that particular religion?

I feel like it’s such a big part of my life and who I am today. I guess like without Christianity and being a Christian, I wouldn’t be who I am today. I learned and experienced a lot being a Christian. It helped me go through the ups and downs, and it’s like a solid root. Instead of having my identity on schools or people but something that can last forever.

A lot of my times I see my friends or people around me who fall away from being a Christian, and it breaks my heart. That’s when I take a step back and appreciate what I have. It’s through his grace that I am still here. Ultimately I steer back to who he is and what he is.

How does your identity — ethnicity and gender — affect your approach and faith in Christianity?

I never really thought about that. Like how my Asian American and gender could affect my faith or religion. It never really affected me. One thing though, being a female, you are spiritually aware because you’re more emotional. Girls are more able to have more feelings involved — not that guys don’t — but, girls tend to [have an] emotional attachment to the religion.

When was the most life-changing moment that inspired you call yourself as a follower of Christ?

I don’t think I had like a “life-changing” moment but rather growing and maturing. Being able to experience what God was doing in my life, [and] seeing God’s will throughout my life. These experiences and this one major event made me feel the presence of him. When I was trying to decide where I wanted to go to college. I was stuck between two schools, and I was unsure of where I wanted to go. After touring the campus, I didn’t feel at peace, and I remember praying with my parents. During that moment, I felt [God] telling me to go to UGA. Peace transcended me and all understandings. After I made the decision, I was so relieved. Seeing the big picture of it all, now as a senior in college, it [is] amazing to see how his will was done. I am thankful for that, and it pushed me closer to him. Once you feel that peace and warmth, it’s hard to break away from him.

What are three words that you would use to describe the religion?

Grace, hope, and love.

What are some of the major challenges of being a Christian and being part of the community?

I guess worldly, temptations and desires are easy to be caught up in. Whether it’s materialism or going out to party, it’s hard not being tempted as a Christian. And it’s hard to set yourself aside from that. I have to remind myself that I am not perfect, and I ask for forgiveness. These challenges are not only to Christians but for anyone. Whenever you do get caught up in these things, it’s hard to stay close with God. But, it also helps you strengthen your faith and knowing God.

If you could have a dinner with Christ, what would be the menu?

I will say Korean food with all the side dishes, Bulgogi, Samgyupsal (pork belly), soup, and rice because I love it and I want to enjoy it with him.

What advice would you give to someone who is new to this religion?

I wouldn’t force or push it. Just take it at your own pace to discover your curiosity and seeking answers or the truth that you want to see in a religion. Actively go and find people who are believers and surround yourself with them so that you can experience the community of believers.

Which Biblical character do you admire?

Abraham because he [was] tested to kill his son up in the mountain, [and] that takes a lot of human strength to follow God’s direction. If I were in his situation, I don’t know if I were able to do that. I love my friends and family, but the thought of sacrificing them is so daunting. Like, how could I have the strength to do that? I hope that one day, I am able to risk my own life for God, too.

Most importantly, what makes you happy?

Family and friends because I value them the most. My interaction with my loved ones helps me experience God’s love and give love back. Spending time with them and being able to keep each other accountable. It makes me happy that I am able to delve into deeper and meaningful conversations, and lasting with people that I love.