I grew up in a church family and went to a Catholic school. My family went to church every Sunday. I knew a lot about Jesus. I knew that he came to earth, died on the cross and rose again. However, I didn’t take this knowledge personally. I convinced myself that I was a Christian - however, deep down I knew that I didn’t have a true relationship with God. I was simply going through the motions - praying in times of crisis and saying the “right” things to those around me. Inwardly though, I had no peace in my life.

When I was 21, I was married and living in Florida. I was listening to a sermon by a pastor. He was discussing Acts 8:26-40. In this story, Phillip tells a man about Jesus. The man is baptized and is immediately changed. I realized that I had never had such a life changing experience. A few days later I went to a church service where I prayed to the Lord. I told HIm that I was a sinner and I wanted to repent of my sins. I then asked Him to live in my heart. I now know that Jesus died on the cross for my sins. He lives in my heart today and I will spend eternity with Him in heaven.

Since Jesus came into my life, I have experienced joy and peace even in the midst of difficult circumstances. It is hard to imagine, but God has given me peace even during tough times in my life. He has given me clear direction when I needed it and has helped me to see the big picture in life. I still face trials and tribulations just like anyone else, but God gives me a peace that enables me to deal with the circumstances that I face.