Michigan

In 2003, Michael and Lori Jordan learned they would lose one of their unborn twin boys. The possibility of losing both was high. The physicians provided them with little hope since, in their eyes, both children should have died already.

Lori prayed daily that her little babies would live long enough to make it to their births. They did, however, two-pound Zachery died in her arms fifteen minutes after birth. Their other son, Chase, was over three pounds and lived.

Michael, uncertain of Christ's love and presence, was angry at the loss of Zachery. He did not experience the same relief Lori felt in knowing Christ. Lori had a diverse church background and was occasionally attending the Mio Adventist church at the time.

Months later, Michael felt compelled to attend evangelistic meetings held in Mio. During the meetings, where Terry Nelson was speaker, Michael remembers hearing that some of his loved ones would be in Heaven, but if he was not saved, he would never see them again.

Those words touched Michael. At the close of the sermon, the pastor made an appeal for individuals to come forward to give their hearts to Jesus. Michael almost ran forward, while Lori stayed in her seat. She was shocked to see Michael get up from the pew so quickly and unreservedly. He had never been to church in his youth and it was wonderful to see him accept Jesus. Lori hesitated, thinking she did not need to be baptized again since she had been baptized at least three times in various denominations growing up.

Michael acknowledges that he used to believe you could live as you please and that as long as you were nice God would accept you in Heaven. During the evangelistic meetings he learned this idea was far from the truth and dangerous to believe. They both discovered the real truth that you must surrender your heart to Jesus if you want to go to Heaven.

Lori marveled as she watched Michael read his Bible and ask lots of questions. He was now understanding what the Bible teaches and was thirsty for more truth.

Lori and Michael were both baptized and are members of the Mio Church. Michael often visits the hospital emergency room because of a bad back. Before he became a church member, when asked his religious preference, he would answer, "None." Now, he smiles and boldly answers, "I am a Seventh-day Adventist!" Both Michael and Lori are proud of their newfound faith and new life in Christ Jesus.

Lori Jordan and Bruce Babienco, Lake Union Herald volunteer correspondent