The Salvation Army has always felt like home for Thomas.

But it wasn’t until he was 18 years old, after a painful breakup, when he met Jesus. “In the midst of it,” Thomas shared, “I decided to turn to Christ because he sought after me just like the one who leaves the ninety-nine.”

After that moment, Thomas’s journey hasn’t just lived at the mountaintop. Thomas has endured numerous hardships, but he credits his faith as his foundation. “Each hardship has only drawn me closer to Christ.”

Thomas finds comfort in the community around him. As a member at the Jackson, MS corps, led by Majors Timothy and Bethany Delaney, he cherished “how closely connected and intertwined the corps is.”

One program that’s had a lasting impact on his faith is the summer conservatory music program, where he attended both as a camper and counselor. “It has spiritually grown me and has had permanent impact in my life.”

Balancing faith with school, extracurriculars, and a social life isn’t easy, but Thomas makes it work. He prioritizes his relationship with the Lord and puts his faith first. “Nothing matters more to me than my relationship with the Lord,” he remarked. “I also put my faith first; it goes over everyone and everything.” 

One Bible passage that always hits home for Thomas is Revelation 21:1-8. “He who was seated on the throne said, ‘I am making everything new!’ Then he said, ‘Write this down, for these words are trustworthy and true’” (Revelation 21:5, NIV).

Thomas had a word for those who may be struggling with their faith. “To live with eternity in mind,” he shared. “That everything here on this earth is going to pass and not matter. So, stop stressing or worrying over things that are temporary.” 

As for the future, Thomas plans to enter the workforce after graduation. He looks to the Lord for guidance and what He has in store for him.