Mike Cleveland baptizes Darlene Revis

Because I did not know any better, I thought my life was just fine. I did not grow up in the typical family situation or attend church, so I knew nothing about Jesus. My adult life, as I knew it, was good - I was living the American dream. I was in control, a good person and a law-abiding citizen. I had a wonderful military career, a happy marriage, a home and two loving children. I needed nothing and no one. As I look back over my life, there is a real knowing that even though I did not know God and felt that I did not need him - it has become clear to me that He had chosen me and was taking care of me, even in my sinful state. I experienced several tragedies in my immediate family and God used these to show me what grace and love He had for me. God also used the Setting Captives Free ministry - the time was right ,and it was only God. I fell under such conviction of the Holy Spirit that I knew it was only God who had a plan for me. But, it would mean giving up the strong will, attitudes and self that I had spent my life wrapped up in. It was not easy and I could have not done it myself. Only with the grace of God did I begin to accept what Christ was offering. There was a process that began in me that day, a process of repentance, forgiveness and a purification of my soul. I do rejoice in what Christ has done in my life. He has changed my life - giving me a new-found relationship with my heavenly Father and allowing me to live in freedom from my habitual sins of gambling, smoking, pride and self-focus. I know God has given me peace for the past, grace for the present and a hope for the future.

Darlene Revis