March 1^st

Remember your leaders, who spoke the word of God to you.  Consider the outcome of their way of life and imitate their faith.    Hebrews 13:7

My salvation story does not include exciting or dramatic events like so many others in our congregation, so I was a little hesitant when Mrs. Rene’ asked me to share it.  As a child and teenager I was a rule follower and cannot remember a time in my life that I did not believe in God.  My family joined Pleasant Hill when I was 8 or 9 so I attended church services and Sunday School, but I did not fully understand the concept of salvation (the actual steps I needed to take).  Later, as a teenager I became involved in the youth group at Cloverdale Methodist Church and was greatly influenced by some wonderful youth leaders!  Danny & Vonda Frederick and Rhonda & Lewis Hairrell spent many hours with us sharing their love for God and guiding us along His path through devotionals, youth activities and retreats.  This was exactly the guidance I needed and shortly thereafter I went forward during an alter call at a 5^th Quarter event at a local church to accept Jesus Christ as my Savior!  My story is yet another example of the importance of our youth leaders and the powerful influence they have on our teenagers.  We are so blessed to have amazing people who spend countless hours with the future church.  We should constantly lift up and pray for Kyle, Emily, Mrs. Rene’ and all the others who work with our youth.  Also, Bryan and Angela Haddock carry on a ministry at Central School for teenagers with the FCA Club (Future Christian Athletes) that touches so many young lives.  Every life saved is a miracle of God, just like my own was! God Bless!

Lisa Stamps