~ Gary Kearns

My story begins in Chicago. It is not what I’d call a “typical” story, because I always seemed to be the “odd man out” with both family and friends.

 The one thing I always felt I was pretty good at was music, and that was what gave me some sense on personal accomplishment in the midst of all the unsavory choices I made in my life. Later the LORD would use it to reveal His awesome wonder in this life to me.

 In 1974, the LORD found me and began what has been a marvelous, adventure-filled over 35-year journey in His awesome presence! It has by no means been an easy relationship, it has been filled with challenges and personal trials, but looking back, it has been a “perfect” relationship (for me), because in every situation the LORD has had a purpose for my good and His glory in it, and for that I praise Him, as I look forward to whatever and wherever He chooses to lead me and my wonderful family into in the future.

~ Hollis

Ever since I can remember I’ve pursued the American Dream.  I’d get good grades, work in the family business, and go to good schools in hopes of being a millionaire by the time I was 30. I wanted the 5000 sq ft home, nice cars, big screen TV’s, the beautiful wife and 2.5 kids. Having straight A’s, getting a scholarship to college, and securing a great engineering job, I was well on my way.  However, I was empty inside. Successes, achievements and things never fulfilled me. I was just left with a desire for more. Then one day, some friends challenged me with two questions that would change my life. One, did I have a real and meaningful relationship with God? And two, when I pass, would I go to heaven? These questions led me to the truth that Jesus Christ died for all my sins so that I can have a personal relationship with God and know that I will be in heaven with Him. I discovered that true happiness doesn’t come from things, it comes from a personal relationship with God and the secure knowledge that no matter what happens on earth, I’ll be in heaven with God. Now, I live with a joy and fulfillment of personally knowing God and living not for the American Dream or for myself, but for what really matters – people! So, how about you?

~ Kyung Lee

I became a Christian at a young age and for most of my life I went to church and spent my time with other Christians. But, I did not always live out my Christian beliefs.  Life was good and God was secondary to that life. I felt God must love me because of the wonderful family and friends He had given me.

Then, 3 ½ years ago my only brother was killed in a helicopter crash.  I had idolized Tod and the heartbreak of losing him took over my life. I was angry, confused and couldn’t bring myself to talk to God for almost two years. I felt God could do nothing for me. The only thing I wanted was Tod back and God couldn’t give me that. But, I did think about God more than ever.

The time came when I realized that although I hadn’t gone to God in my sorrow, I hadn’t turned away from Him either. And as long as I was still facing Him, why not embrace Him? Once I did that, I knew without a doubt that God loves me. I knew this not by looking at the blessings I have been given, those can be gone at any minute. I knew this because He gave me His Son. Now, certain of His love, I truly believe in the promise of eternal life. Certain of His love, I believe in putting Him first in my life. Certain of His love, I know that no matter what happens in my life, His plan has my best interest in m in mind and  He will always be by my side.

~ Lindy Lee