Beginning – again
Posted by petetschantz on September 23, 2009
First, a little bit about how I got here. I grew up going to church with my parents, was fairly active, and enjoyed it. I have been involved in churches on and off (mostly off) during my adult life, and was saved and baptized as a young adult. But for some reason, I had drifted away from God and the church.
This summer, my wife lost her oldest son at 26. This tragedy really made me think about my life, and how I was living it. I was not really happy with what that examination revealed to me about me. I knew something needed to change. Also, over the last few months, the Holy Spirit has really been calling me, but I was simply having trouble answering for some reason.
Last week, I was listening to a podcast by Greg Laurie, from Harvest.org and it really spoke to me. I’m not sure if I just needed to find that man speaking those words, or if my stubbornness was just finally overcome, but I was moved to pray for Christ to enter my life again, forgive my sins, and help me be the man I am supposed to be.
The feelings of peace and joy I have felt since are impossible to describe to someone who has not felt them.
I’m currently searching for a church home, having visited one with my friend (who has been a tremendous example to me) this past Sunday. My grandson, who is 3, came with me and also had a wonderful time. I was taking him home Sunday afternoon, and out of the blue he told me ‘Papa, I had fun going to church with you’. That has me thinking that perhaps this will be a short search, but I’ll visit again Sunday and continue to pray for guidance in this.
So, anyway that is where I am in this new beginning. I have no doubt it will be a wonderful ride.
