Who I Am

I have always been a Christian. I do not remember a time that I did not attend church, either with my parents and family, or on my own. The church, my faith and community have always been important to me. I knew, even at a young age, that I would never stray far from my faith. In fact, when I was very young one of my favorite things was to play church. I would line all my stuffed animals up in a row and preach to them. One Christmas my father built me a tiny pulpit so that I could complete the game.

By the time I had reached my teen years I had chosen a different path, however. I was planning a career in politics. I believed (and have not changed my mind) that we need honest, Christian men and women to represent the needs of all people in government. I was planning to become a Christian Congressman.

But God had different ideas. There are three distinct things that happened to change my orientation and focus.

• I was in the bedroom of my house playing my guitar and worshiping. I was alone and was convinced that I was on the right track with my life. I believed (and still do) that God needs people in all lines of work. I was being called into politics. That is until that night when the thought entered my head that I should become a pastor. However, my path was planned. I knew where I was going and what I was doing. I dismissed this call (the first) as a figment of my imagination.
• Several months later (maybe a year) I was attending a youth crusade led by the evangelist Bob Laurent with my youth group. I was very impressed by everything that happened, and especially by Laurent himself. He was fun and funny. He was likable and I liked him. While he was preaching one night the thought entered my head that I would love to do what he was doing. I spent some time talking to him after the service and he seemed genuine and godly (a good combination for an evangelist). I sensed God's voice speaking to me again. But once again, I dismissed it as my imagination.
• Finally, I was studying between classes about six months later in the Student Center at Ball State University. While taking a break I looked out a window and saw a girl walking under my window out of the building. I heard God say, "Someone needs to tell her about me." I knew then that I was the someone. I was to do God's work. He was calling me.