A personal testimony, Part 1

Sixteen. I started spending a lot of time with a girl (don't all the best stories have a girl?). We started "going out"; kids today call it "dating" (neither of which occur much). We knew each other the way two quiet small town kids know one another in a small town school in a small town (less than 500). We'd even had a short stint in the same daycare as smaller children. I joined an elective choir class "to meet girls" [Mission accomplished :)]. She came from a family who were at church "every time the doors were open". I came from a background that had very few darkenings of the doors of any church. From the spending of time together came an invitation to church. More invitations led to more frequent attendance and at the various service opportunities. One Sunday evening in March 1994, the girl's father gave me an Eternal Life tract.
                                                   
I read it over and over each evening that week. I understood the words, but I was still lost (the unsaved way, yes, but also in understanding) until "The Fateful Thursday" of March 10. This time the Spirit made me truly understand I was separated from Him from the offset, but He had provided the Way to Him, His only Son, Jesus. I cried out to the Creator of the universe, begged His forgiveness, committed to follow His way, and Jesus settled in my heart. I can't describe the feeling (even this word cheapens the experience, but near the conclusion, I will attempt to describe a certain aspect). The following Sunday, I met with the Pastor of the church. We talked about what had happened, and he led me in a prayer, just to make sure I knew what I had done (I thank this man for this). Though more formal, I had already acted upon my belief the previous Thursday. I was baptized within the hour of this conversation. This was my first act of obedience to show others that my old life had died with Christ and I am raised again in His new life. I've heard others' descriptions of their moment of salvation, and I have no doubt their experiences were genuine. But I've never heard what I'm about to tell you. I would like to offer a disclaimer, and say I am not a "hugger". There is a place for hugs, but it is simply not my go-to salutation. I would certainly say, as others have, it feels like this huge weight was lifted off of me, but that Sunday, despite the chill of a March morning, I felt this warmth that permeated from the inside out. I can only describe it as a hug from the Almighty. Another display of His awesome mercy and grace: He confirmed His presence. All glory to God for who He is, what He has done, what He is doing, what He will do. Find out more here.