In the series, I came face to face with God’s love for me, a person who really isn’t all that nice on the inside, to say the least! I came face to face with God’s overwhelming desire to spend the rest of eternity with me – and you, too, by the way. I came face to face with God’s interest in my personal life, and God’s desire for me to allow Him to become involved to the point where no matter what happens, He will bring the best possible good out of each situation. The only problem with that is recognizing that often what we think is the best outcome is not that which God knows is the best for us.
Boca Ciega Bay, Florida
I had to make a decision. Become a follower of Christ, or continue trying to control my life by myself. I had to admit, I hadn’t done such a good job of that, but after believing that I was in control, that I knew what was best, that I was “the master of my fate,” that I was “the captain of my soul,” it was hard to get my head around involving the supreme being known as God.
It was a struggle. It took quite a while. I often wasn’t very nice to be around during that process.
In fact, one evening a few weeks into that 5-week series, the doorbell rang. I opened the door and there was Pastor Cress, the pastor of the church putting it on. He had dropped by without even asking permission or giving us notice. I nearly shut the door in his face! Sandra convinced me to let him in, and we talked.
Charles Cress became a good friend, and we spend many hours talking together as I wrestled with the Holy Spirit. My biggest challenge was admitting that I was convinced. And, I also realized I would have to make some changes in my life. Changes I didn’t want to make.
A few months after the series, Sandra was baptized and joined the church. I held out for a few more months. Then, the oddest thing happened.
We were in church (yes, I was bringing Sandra and the kids) one worship service, and there was a session of prayer at the end of the sermon. While we all were bowed down, Pastor Cress gave a “call.” He said that if there were anyone who hadn’t given their heart to the Lord, and would like to make that decision now “with every head bowed and every eye closed,” for that person to raise their hand.
I felt an incredible pressure. I knew he was talking about me. No way I was going to raise my hand! Nope. Not a chance! However, I found that my left hand was rising straight above my head! Did I do that? I don’t think so. Then, who did? I don’t know, but it’s up there. Now what?
After more long conversations with Pastor Cress, and more weeks of dithering, I was baptized into the family of God. I have not once regretted doing that over the twenty years that have passed since that event.