Meet Becky Marras, a senior from Ohio who is chasing after Jesus and encouraging girls all over the world. I had the privilege of meeting Becky this past year during the Brio Girl 2008 contest. The moment I met her (in the Colorado Springs Airport!) I immediately sensed God had great plans for her--and He does! God has brought her through so many awesome opportunities and experiences that she is using to help others. I have enjoyed Becky's friendship and I hope that you can get a glimpse of this year's Brio Girl through this interview.......so, let's get started!How did you become a Christian?
I started a relationship with my Lord Jesus when I was 6 years old at family camp. The gospel message was presented, and I prayed with my dad later. However, when I was twelve years old I came to a full knowledge of the omnipotent power of Jesus. During 6th grade, my church went through some trials. My youth pastor felt God's call to a different church, taking his wife, one of my best friends, with him. During that time I really questioned God. I asked Him : "Why are you putting me through this? Are you sure you are in control?" Through that storm the Lord showed me that nothing is out of His control. His mighty hand is always there for me to hang out to. His power is unmatched, and I can have peace.
Why did you enter the Brio Girl 2008 contest?
Isn't Brio magazine an awesome ministry!! I'm so thankful that there is a mag out there that can encourage and challenge girls spiritually. I entered the Brio contest after many weeks of prayer, study, and encouragement. During those weeks the Lord showed me how other Brio girls have ministered to readers. He showed me that this would be an amazing opportunity to bring readers closer to Him. After this revelation and encouragement from others, I decided to enter the contest. My heart's desire is that everything I say and do as Brio girl would be glory to my Savior.
What is your favorite Bible verse? Why?
Oh, wow! The Bible is filled with so many truths, it is hard to pick just one favorite! However, I think my ultimate favorite is Galatians 1:10 10 "Am I now trying to win the approval of men, or of God? Or am I trying to please men? If I were still trying to please men, I would not be a servant of Christ." As teen girls, we are a sponge for attention. We love it when boys look our way, or your dad takes you out to dinner, or your best friend gets you your favorite coffee. As I read this verse, it got me to thinking. Why do we seek that attention from man, when the God of the universe longs to have our attention on Him? The God who created the Grand Canyon and Niagara Falls thinks that we are precious in his sight! So, I look at it this way, as Princess of the King of Kings, let's seek our approval from the Royal One. Let us try and live a life that will end in Him saying "well done, good and faithful servant"
What has God been doing in your life recently?
Lately, God has been showing me that I can have such a firm confidence in Him. Over the course of my life, I have always struggled with doubt. The devil likes to sneak in my ear saying that I'm not good enough, making me frustrated with myself. However, God is continually revealing to me that I am fearfully and wonderfully made! Every part of me was constructed for a purpose. Instead of doubting who I am and wasting time thinking of how I can change, I can be the person God created and point others to Him. The Lord has shown me throughout Isaiah and Songs of Songs that I am a gorgeous princess, unbelievable in His eyes! To think that I take God's breath away, how awesome! I am reading Captivating by John and Staci Eldridge.. In that book, Staci says "God is not interested in who you think you are supposed to be, He wants intimacy with the real you!"
What are you planning to do for college?
College! I am so excited for the opportunity to share Christ with people I don't know. I feel like the Lord has lead me to Calvin College in Grand Rapids, Michigan. As soon as I stepped on campus I felt at home. I am excited for how the Lord is going to work in my life there, amidst lots of snow! I hope to go there for an education major and an urban studies minor. I want to share God's love with the children of the inner city. I want my classroom to be a haven of hope, a place where kids can come and be academically and spiritually fed. Please pray for me!
Who has been the biggest role model in your life? Why?
My mom is an amazing woman of faith. She is definitely my biggest role model. She teaches kindergarten, and her care for the students is a great example to me. Also, the way she incorporates faith with learning is a skill that I hope to use in my classroom someday. Also, my mom has the best servant's heart I know. She is constantly looking for ways to help people out such as : making meals, cleaning the church, and writing notes to kids in my youth group. She exemplifies the love of Jesus in everything she does, and I love her so much!
Where do you find the inspiration to write your articles for Brio?
Writing a Brio article is so refreshing for me. Many times I just write about what the Lord is teaching me. Sometimes, I will try and focus on an upcoming holiday, or season. I pray about each article, asking God to give me a topic that girl's need to hear. He answers in many ways. In fact, the last article I wrote my pastor happened to preach on it the next day!
What is one thing that you want teen girls to know?
One thing I would like teen girls to know is that you are a beautiful daughter of the King of Kings and Lord of Lords. When God laid out the blue print for your life, every little line and angle was put there for a purpose. We can be confident knowing that we were created to give glory to the creator! Now, take that confident attitude and share it with others! When girls see your smile, positive attitude and clean conversation, they will wonder what is up! The joy and confidence the Savior provides is contagious. Don't be afraid to share with others the source of your confidence.
Thank you Becky for your servant's heart. I absolutely love having you as a friend....God is using you in HUGE ways for His glory. Keep up the great work!
