A Change of Heart

FORWARD

My father has lived an audacious life. For many years he struggled to rebuild it, but only to revert to an uncertain and potentially hazardous lifestyle. As a child I was exposed to a vivid display of misconduct and a alluring style of living. I had to contend with a few trials of my own through the years, many with great error from the misconception that I had. It would take a divine intervention to bring me to the understanding that I have in Christ today. My father has dignified himself in the eyes of many, and will continue to develop himself spiritually with the opening of his ministry, that may help the Christian community, as well as to bring to light the Salvation that is available to all man-kind.

Introduction

This is a story on how a gospel of God altered and changed a life but only when the gospel was implemented. We must establish a foundation. As I look at the world today I see a world of division caused by religion which is merely man made theories.

John 14:6— Jesus claims to be the way the truth and the light. Studying this verse closely the structure of a path leads to the truth. That you will have a better life. That love and all true emotion come directly from the heart.

Revelation 3:20[NLT] “Look I stand at the door and knock, if you hear my voice open the door, and I will come in, and we will share a meal together as friends.”

He also gives us power and authority.

John 14:12[NLT]“I tell you the truth, anyone who believes in me will do the same works I have done, and even greater works, because I am going to be with the Father.”

That is a very powerful verse. When you translate this verse and apply it to your existence. Life, it starts a new walk. You are no longer blind, crippled, or spiritually dead.

I was inspired by a conversation with an officer named Mike Macalam, to put my story on paper. With that in mind I started to reflect. Where would I even begin? It's almost like looking back at a movie. A film so incredible. God's Grace at it's finest. He allowed me to live my life my way, with my own choices and experiences. Only to choose to follow Him when every other direction was exhausted. If only I could rewind and select the chosen path of His will for me. It brings me to a point in my life where I now realize the extent of my actions. The damage that I afflicted, on myself and on others. How amazing God is to bless me with His Grace and Mercy. His forgiveness is unchanging. His Love it now lives in my heart. God proclaims to have created us in his own image.

John 10:34[KJV]Jesus answered them, “ it is not written in your laws, I said, Ye are gods?”

As an only child, I walked into a world of darkness. Like walking into quicksand, I started to sink, and it was within that darkness that my life was consumed. I ran for over 21 years from the law, myself, and God. But the race would end and my greatest nightmare would come to life. I was. wanted in three counties, in two states. I prayed and I hoped that they would not find out about these warrants or my aliases. This knot in my throat was unbearable, I was gasping for air. Emotions of fear, I didn't even know existed. I would be arraigned in the morning. Until then, I was placed in a holding cell, awaiting a transfer to a permanent one. The next morning, an inmate came over and said to me , “We are having a prayer meeting in my cell before lock down, and you are welcome to join us”.

I needed something. Someone. Anything. I decided to follow him. When I arrived at the 5' x 12' cell, there were five or six men, all with Bibles in their hands. One of them said “welcome”, and then he started to pray. He then looked around and asked a few of our names. He said, “The only way to salvation is through Jesus Christ”. He spoke briefly about the resurrection and then he opened his Bible. Then one of the other men said “I'd like to read something”. He led us through the scriptures to Galatians 5:7–10. He read the deep penetrating words that I will never forget—Ye did run well; who did hinder you that ye should not obey the truth? “This persuasion cometh not of him that calleth you. A little leaven leaveneth the whole lump.” I have confidence in you through the Lord, that ye will be none otherwise minded; but he that troubleth you shall bear his judgment, whosoever he be.

In a newer translation[NLT] it reads; You were running the race so well. Who has held you back from following the truth? It certainly isn't God, for he is the one who called you to freedom. “This false teaching is like a little yeast that spreads through the whole batch of dough.” I am trusting the Lord to keep you from believing false teachings. God will judge that person, whoever he is, who has been confusing you.

I stood there in awe. Confused. My life started to unfold before me. Remembering everything. The guilt and anguish started to set in. My name is Johnny Delgado, and this is my story...