Summer 1993

My Glorious New Life
Jennifer Hyde

I was lonely, confused, and depressed. I had no friends, and no one cared. I tried to find satisfaction in all the things of this world, but the only thing I found was more disappointment.

One day I was walking down a narrow street that branched off in two different directions. Where the street divided stood a man. As I approached him I saw that his outward appearance was one not to be desired. He was bruised and scarred.

As I walked closer to Him, His eyes were clear and bright. They seemed to say, "I love you." He smiled at me the way no one had ever smiled at me. I looked beyond His deformed body and saw a heart full of love, kindness, and compassion.

I stood there with tears running down my face and had a desire to know this man. As He looked at me, he said, "My child I love you." He stretched His hands out to me and I saw that they were pierced. I took His hand in mine and told Him that I loved him too. All of a sudden I felt such love, joy, and peace. I knew He loved me. He knew all about me, and yet He forgave me and said He had a purpose for my life.

This man's name is Jesus. He is my friend, my Savior, my Comforter, my Helper and the joy of the new life that He gave me. I was born to worship Him. He suffered and died so I could live, but He rose from the dead, and now we walk together, hand in hand.

Through the trials of this life, I am no longer alone.