I accepted without much question the religion of my family. Then in my final year of high school, a friend started asking me questions about my religion.

When I started answering some of the harder questions, I realized that I did not like the answers I had to give. "How could God be so unmerciful, I wondered.?" I walked away from my beliefs and went through what I call my atheist period.

Unfortunately, I threw out God's law at the same time. God was patient with me as I broke one commandment after another. I turned my back on Him to examine other gods.

One day I was sitting all alone in a large open meadow. The sky was an expansive open clear sky. No sign of a human being or civilization in sight. I felt so small in comparison to the expansive universe. I remember thinking, "If there was a God, why would He think about man? We are such insignificant beings in this universe."

Within a few years, God was to answer that question and give me answers to the questions my friend asked. Despite my sins and rejection of God, He led me to His Word. Looking back, I can see He was working with me all along.

Growing up, I had never really read the whole Bible. I had heard and read quotes from it. I can't express the kinship I felt when I read David's words for the first time, "What is man that you are mindful of him."

Although I still suffer some of the consequences of my sins, I know they are forgiven. Jesus paid the price for me. Jesus continues to teach me what a loving Father we have. I know I can rely on Him for forgiveness, strength and peace of mind. God continues to show me who He is. That is why I believe.

This is a season of examination and recommitment of our belief that Jesus lived, was crucified, died and rose again for our salvation.

What better example do we have to examine than that of Mary of Magdala, who first proclaimed, "I have seen the Lord." I hope you enjoy the April issue as you examine your belief.