Indiana

My family and I (Cordero Prather) were in the flood of 2007. Before the flood [which devastated many homes and lives in the Midwest], I had always believed in God but never really read my Bible. The flood taught us a tough lesson. When the dam broke, the water came so fast we did not have time to find Mitzy, our Pomeranian. Almost everything in our house was ruined. The good thing was we survived as well as the rest of our pets. I learned that things mean nothing, and the only thing that matters is God and family (and pets!).

After the flood, we all lived in a very small camper with no water or bathroom. It took about six months with my dad and uncle working day and night to get the house fixed. God sent more help than we ever expected, and He helped us to get in touch with charities and the long-term flood committee. They helped with supplies, tools and free labor. Out of the flood the Lord blessed us. My parents now own the land and the house that was flooded. The house is 100 times better than what it was before.

As I studied my Bible, God showed me things a little at a time. I started to make changes in my life as I read. I began attending the Martinsville Church every Sabbath. I had a great support group with help from my family, friends and extended church family. The more I learned, the more I wanted to be closer to God. I decided to be baptized. I studied with our pastor for a few months to prepare for my baptism. The Holy Spirit has helped me through life every day. I am now looking into becoming a preacher myself someday. No matter what God has me do in the future, I know with God's help I can do anything.

Cordero Prather, member, Martinsville Church