When I was 8 years old, my dad was diagnosed with cancer. Although my parents were believers, fear brought on by this illness disturbed the peace of our family. The life threatening aspect of the disease brought uncertainty and anxiety.
My life was radically disrupted by this event because we moved to another state for three months during my dad’s treatment, and I was placed with my cousins, an hour away from my parents. Although I loved my relatives with whom I was staying, I felt alone and overwhelmed by fear. I knew about God but had no relationship with Him from which I could find comfort.
One day I went with my parents to a healing service at a church. At the end of the service, the minister invited people to come to the front for prayer. My parents took me with them as they went for prayer. I was unprepared for what I was about to experience.
The minister came to me, looked straight in my eyes and asked me what I wanted. I knew this was serious and had nothing to do with what I wanted for Christmas. After a few seconds of silence, I told him I wanted my dad to be healed. The next thing I knew, he put both his large hands fi rmly on top of my head. I remember hearing him speak, but have no memory of what he said. I do remember what I felt. Instantly, I was immersed in peace that was tangible. All fear, tension, and worry vaporized in this presence. Although still not a believer, intuitively, I knew I had just encountered God.
That experience set the course for the rest of my life. The pursuit of that presence is still my top priority!