I grew up the youngest of 4 children and the only girl. To say I was sheltered and over protected would be putting it mildly. My family was very close and we attended church together every week. My dad taught me to pray expecting God to hear and answer my prayers. My mom taught me to read my Bible, tithe and respect the Lord’s house. I was a “good” kid who wanted to obey my parents and make them proud. I thought we had it all until I realized there was more to life than my family.

We attended Tucapau Baptist church and had “our spot”, third pew from the back, where we sat each week. I listened as the preacher would tell of Jesus’ love for me and how He died for my sins and wanted me to be a part of His family. Every week we sang “Just as I Am” and as I sang I began to feel the Lord tug on my heart. I truly believed He loved me and that He wanted me to come to Him just as I was, a sinner. I wanted to walk down that isle to pray to receive Jesus, but I was sitting way in the back and I couldn’t seem to get the courage to go down. On June 10, 1981 at the age of 11 my life changed forever. During Vacation Bible School our youth minister taught a lesson and afterward asked if any of us would like to ask Jesus into our hearts. That night I prayed and invited Jesus to come into my heart, to forgive me of my sins and to join His family.

Twenty-six years have passed since then and I am so thankful for God’s grace and mercy. Without Him I have nothing; with Him I have joy, peace and contentment. My earthy father went to heaven 7 months ago after battling cancer. If it were not for my faith in God I could not have dealt with such a great loss. Jesus is my rock and I love Him.