I was raised in a God loving family, both or my parents were shining examples of what Christians should be. I was twelve years old when I understood the importance of a relationship with God and tried to learn and obey God’s calling by being baptised. Like every family we saw our share of heartache as both my brother and I rebelled against our parents and our relationship with God.
I strayed as far away as possible for many years and made so many mistakes that I thought could never be forgiven but, as it says in Romans 3:23 & 24,“all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and all are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus.” Hallelujah!
God was still working in my life thanks to parents that prayed. I attend college, had many jobs, and still ran from God’s call. I met my wonderful husband who wasn’t a Christian.
After the birth of our amazing daughter I decided that even if I wasn’t a Christian, I wanted her to know about God and be able to make the choice to follow him. I attended many other churches. After a life altering experience in 2015 – I was diagnosed with Breast Cancer – I rededicated my life to God and was led to York Community Church. We found a loving, nurturing environment and a place to grow in God’s love and learn daily about his Word.
Our daughter found new friends and activities here at York CC and became a junior soldier. We were blessed in 2017 to have my mother and in-laws see us become senior soldiers of The Salvation Army. I know my Dad, whom we lost in 2016, would have been happy and proud to see us serving God and our community through The Salvation Army.
My favourite scripture is the 23rd Psalm:
The Lord is my shepherd I shall not want.
He makes me to lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside the still waters; He restores my soul.
He leads me in the paths of righteousness for His name’s sake.
Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil for You are with me. Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.
You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil. My cup runs over.
Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.