I was deep in sin in the early 1970s with no way on my own to get out. By God's mercy, in a business environment, I heard about a man named Chuck Smith and Calvary Chapel Costa Mesa. On Friday the 13th of September, 1974, I walked into Pastor Chuck's office with no appointment and asked to see him. I was told that he was in a Board Meeting and the earliest appointment available was in six weeks. My heart sank and I asked, "Couldn't I see him for just a couple of minutes?" His secretary asked why and I responded, "I understand I can find Christ here." She said, "Sit down, I'll be right back," interrupted the Board Meeting and told Pastor Chuck I was outside and why. He terminated the Board Meeting and invited me into his inner office within a few minutes. With love and compassion I have never experienced from any man, he shared the love of Christ with me. He explained the Gospel in simple terms, that Jesus loves me just as I am and that He would forgive me if I would simply confess my sin, ask for His forgiveness, repent,and invite Him into my life as my Lord and Savior. I did and the Lord did as He promised, cleansing me from my sin. I am forever grateful to the Lord for Pastor Chuck and can only rejoice that he is where he always wanted to be, in Heaven praising our King. |