How I Became a ChristianI grew up in Los Angeles, California during the turbulent ‘60s. My religious background was a mixture of Christian Science, Eastern Mysticism and the Occult. These influences, combined with my growing resentment toward the “establishment” during the Viet Nam War era, eventually led to disillusionment. My initial reaction was to follow my peers by rebelling against authority. So, I ran away from home and began experimenting with drugs and alcohol. These activities only led to further disillusionment, and then, despair.
Sometime after my 18th birthday, I began to have a great need for Truth. My life had reached such a low point that I didn't care about it anymore and often "tempted fate" with my reckless behavior. It was around this time that someone gave me a New Testament to read. I remember how drawn I was to Jesus and the compassion he showed for the outcasts of society. I thought if I could only meet him, he would surely care about me too. I had no idea that this was possible. Then one evening a friend invited me to church. I heard the gospel preached that night and for the first time understood that Jesus had suffered the punishment that I deserved. He voluntarily died on the cross in my place so that I could have peace with God; and he hadn't even done anything wrong! So, when the pastor asked if there was anyone in the room who believed that Jesus died for them, I raised my hand. Suddenly I knew that Jesus was alive and that he was aware of my secret desire to meet him! At first I felt ashamed and dirty in his presence, convicted of sin, but this was quickly followed by an overwhelming sense of love and acceptance. Jesus became my Savior that very special day in 1975 and he let me know that I was finally home. Everything was going to be alright and he would take care of me. Final Thoughts Perhaps you are searching for some meaning and direction for your life. Whatever your circumstances may be, I want you to understand that forgiveness and hope are available to you right now. The bible teaches that... "all have sinned and come short of the glory of God." ~ Romans 3:23 "But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were yet sinners, Christ died for us." - Romans 5:8 "For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord." - Romans 6:23 This is the word of faith that I am proclaiming to you today... "That if you confess with your mouth, that Jesus is Lord, and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you confess and are saved. For everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved. - Romans 10:9-10,13 You can learn more about Jesus by clicking here... Thanks for taking the time to read my story. It is my sincere hope and prayer that you will come to know Jesus as I have. Because He Lives,
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