Great news from the Antelope Valley Church of Christ! We recently had one of the most inspiring baptisms in the history of our church and we want to share it with you all! Here’s the story:
Hello, my name is Dillon Bennewitz, and together with my best friend Michael Griggs, we made Jesus Lord of our lives on Sunday, July 31, 2016! Michael and I met each other in 2005. Both of us were part of the high school football team. I played offensive line, and Michael was the heart and soul, and inspiration for the team.
Although Michael was born with cerebral palsy and by the age of 12 was unable to walk anymore, he possessed motivation and speaking skills unlike anyone else. Michael was put in the position of leading the team through inspirational speeches, and motivational stories.
In high school, I reached out to Michael and asked if he wanted to hang out and the rest is history. We have been the best of friends since 2005. When I decided to move to Oregon and he decided to move to Sylmar, California we made it a point to call each other weekly, and when I visited home I made sure to see him. We both struggled with what the world threw our way.
As a college athlete, I fell into temptation and found myself sitting in a jail cell at one point. Michael struggled with the inability to leave his wheel chair, the freedom to do things for himself, and the depression that overtook him. We both encouraged each other and made sure that we would make it through our struggles.
When I moved home I decided to reach out to Michael and invite him to church. (I had gone my whole life with my family). Michael was hesitant but he trusted me and said “Okay.” I started studying the Bible, and my life was instantly changed.
I felt encouraged. I felt like I knew that what I did was in the past and Jesus put himself on the cross to forgive me of those sins. But I couldn't keep living the life I was living! I knew Jesus would strengthen me to repent and to move on from the past, and I knew this would be perfect for Michael.
So a couple of brothers from the church and I studied the Bible with him. Michael opened up, repented, and let the Bible change him. I always considered Michael a best friend and a brother, and on July 31 we took the leap together and became spiritual brothers!