Spiritual Autobiography
Luke 2: 1-7 (NLT)
And because Joseph was a descendant of King David, he had to go to Bethlehem in Judea, David’s ancient home. He traveled there from the village of Nazareth in Galilee. He took with him Mary, to whom he was engaged, who was now expecting a child.
And while they were there, the time came for her baby to be born. She gave birth to her firstborn son. She wrapped him snugly in strips of cloth and laid him in a manger, because there was no lodging available for them.
This passage tells the story of two individuals whose faith led them on a meaningful journey. With heartfelt devotion, they freely offered their commitment to God—this was their special gift. Their travels came at the close of the young woman's pregnancy, a detail that was no accident but an essential part of a greater plan. Her child was destined to be born in Bethlehem, fulfilling the next step in God's ongoing purpose for the salvation of humanity. We are also involved in this plan. God has a purpose for us.
Looking ahead to the New Year, consider undertaking a personal assignment: write your spiritual biography. Reflect on the earliest moment you became aware of God's presence in your life. Think of it as a way to trace your faith story and notice the ways God has been present in your life. To get started, you might ask yourself:
When did you first become aware of God's presence or love?
Who has influenced or encouraged your faith along the way?
Have you experienced moments of doubt, change, or growth? What did those times teach you?
How have your beliefs or understanding of God developed through different seasons of life?
For example, my own memory dates to about age eight, when I went with a friend after school to a neighbor’s house for Friendship Club. Two women welcomed us, shared a Bible story, and led us in games. While the details of the story escape me—and I’m unsure if I ever attended again—I do recall receiving a small red booklet filled with Bible verses. Inside the back cover was a space to sign my name, signifying that I had invited Jesus into my heart.
As your story unfolds, keep in mind that every journey is unique and valuable. You might remember a quiet conversation with a mentor in your teens, a season of wrestling with faith in college, or a time when gratitude or struggle brought you closer to God. Let your writing be gradual—pick it up when inspiration comes and pause when you need to reflect. Ask God to guide your memory and help you notice the people and moments that have shaped your faith. The more you look for these encounters, the more clearly, you’ll see God’s hand throughout your journey
Paula Heiney
