In the Beginning...

Seven years and a few months ago I took the plunge. My wife and I were baptized together in the York River at Yorktown, VA. Through an amazing series of events, we had come to find the truth of Jesus Christ. It was an extremely difficult time for us--with a marriage that was on the verge of destruction, friends that were pulling us in various directions (not good ones), and hearts that were every kind of selfish and just plain old wretched. By the grace of God, He revealed Himself to us, and through His word and by the example of a couple of faithful servants, we found ourselves falling into the arms of a loving and graceful God. That was the beginning.

Let me just explain the title of this blog...you may think it odd that I call myself a wretched man. I'm sure there are some reading this who fully understand the depravity of the human condition. The title is inspired by a couple of my brothers in Christ who use this word often... Others reading this may think I am a weak-minded fool and destined for utter failure in life (because we so value self-esteem today). Most will probably fall somewhere in between, wondering a little about my sanity, but maybe just a little curious about my point of view. Plus, I just love saying the word "wretched"- it just sounds awesome!

The reason for this blog is simple: I love to write, and lately (finally), growing my personal relationship with the Lord has become my priority in life. I've finally learned (although I still forget sometimes) that I can't do anything right on my own. It's all got to be Him, through His grace and salvation through Jesus Christ. I've read a few things as I traverse the internet, and often I find that "Christians" are tearing each other to shreds with their comments, and of course unbelievers always have things to say too, but I hope this blog will not end up that way. My intention is solely to encourage other believers, each in his or her own relationship with the Lord.

Daily reminding myself of my wretchedness as I spend time in fellowship with the Creator of the universe, I pray, will keep my posts completely humble. If you see anything other than Christ in me as you read my words, please forgive me. It's a little scary publishing my heart for the whole world to see, but I've learned (again, finally), that what other people think is not really that important.

My prayer is that you will be encouraged as we "grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To Him be the glory both now and forever. Amen." 2 Peter 3:18