I was 27 when Christ drew me unto Himself. I had been brought up in a Christian home and spent much time in church, sunday school and being involved in youth groups, but, for me, it was merely a social experience. I did, however, learn about the Bible and about God, but never felt any personal connection. As I look back, I can see that God was giving me the 'head' knowledge, in preparation for my regeneration and continued sanctification.

I was drawn to Christ in a dramatic way. I was in a marriage to an alcoholic, had two small children and had just moved away from my parents for the first time. In a new location, feeling lost and alone, not even being sure if I could parent well, a severe storm moved through and our house flooded with 4 feet of water. In a complete state of panic, I finally realized that something fundamental and, oh so important, was missing from my life. I picked up the phone and called a former friend who had become the pastor of a very large church. Wonder of wonders, he answered the church phone. I remember telling him I needed to get back to basics and his response being, "Jan, what are basics to you?" I finally blurted out, "oh how I need God". He prayed with me and my spiritual journey began. My Christian walk since that day of regeneration is the only thing that sustains me, strengthens me, gives me peace, enables me to love others and be the woman that Christ desires me to be. "I am crucified with Christ, therefore I no longer live. Jesus Christ now lives in me."

Jesus came to us as a tiny babe, spent time in relative obscurity as He grew, but those three years of public ministry have really spoken to my heart. God send His son, not only to die on the cross, but to live life as we know it. To experience all that we are as humans, but yet in His perfect divine self. We can relate to Him because of this. He understands our tears, our anger, our fears, our hopes and dreams and most of all He understands our need for salvation. He knows it first hand.....he lived it and then He gave himself up at the will of His Father, for our miserable sin by dying a cruel and horrible death which is the only action that rescued us from eternal damnation. Instead we can live with Him forever, clothed in righteousness because HE LIVES.

Joseph's life demonstrates to me most vividly the Sovereignty of God throughout our lives. The book I mentioned above, "The Hand of God" by Alistair Begg is about the life of Joseph.

Each Biblical character was placed there by the Sovereign Hand of God to teach us different fundamental truths as we are ready for them...Praise God

Being Atoned for, being unconditionally loved, and knowing that, with God, all things are possible.

I am very thankful for my family, friends and the support I have received since the death of my husband two years ago. I am thankful for my health and the enthusiastic nature God has given me which makes life so interesting and fun. There is actually no end to the thankfulness I feel. I find no reason NOT to be thankful.

I have written more about myself answering these questions than I have ever done before. It required much thought on my part and prayer as I was writing. It was enlightening to me as I saw it in print and I hope it will be helpful to anyone who might read it.

PS thanks for listening