A Life Changed – Jared’s Story 

I would like to start of by refencing Jeremiah 29.11 – For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord.  Plans to proper you and not to harm you.  Plans to give you hope and a future.

At the young age of 4, I became very sick.  I was diagnosed with Acute Lymphocytic Leukemia which is a cancer that effects the blood and bone marrow.  My life was turned upside down spending weeks at a time going through chemotherapy.  I was lifted up in constant prayer by my parents and church family.  There were may times I was close to death because of the cancer.   I was threated for 4 years and it took a lot out of me and my family.  I truly believe God put His hand on me and did a miracle in my life.

I spent my teen years going to church and youth group.  It was there that I fully surrendered my life to Christ during the youth conference Challenge at Perdue University in Indiana.  I remember hearing the speaker, Francis Chan, speak about what it truly means to pick up your cross and follow Jesus daily.  Just the way Francis Chan presented the gospel was so powerful.  He did an alter call and I remember getting on my knees and giving my life to Christ.

For a short while, I was on fire for God and went on several missions’ trips.  I served at Lily of the Valley Orphanage in Chihuahua, Mexico, and went to New Orleans, LA, twice to help those in need during Hurricane Katrina. As well, helped serve the homeless in Boston, MA and New York City.

After high school, I went to the Prairie Bible Institute in Alberta, Canada.  I enrolled in its Outdoor Leadership Program, but complete only one semester.

Once I returned home, I turned to drugs to fill an empty hole in my life.  I did get into legal trouble and spent 5 months in jail.  After my time in jail, I came to the Springfield Rescue Mission.  I truly believe what I’m learning here has renewed my faith and has strengthened my relationship with God.  I’m learning how to trust without ceasing during hard times.

I would like to end my testimony with a scripture verse.  Psalm 25:4-5 “Show me your ways, LORD, teach me your paths. Guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are God my Savior, and my hope is in you all day long.”