Contact: Steve Karges, Founder and President, Children’s Ministries International, Inc.; Coordinator, Global 4/14 Day, 760-746-1882, Steve@cmikids.com

SAN DIEGO, Calif., June 4, 2017, — Fifty years ago today, my life was changed FOREVER! On June 4, 1967, I walked down the aisle of my childhood church and received Jesus Christ as my Savior and Lord. I was nine years old.

On that Sunday around 12 noon, there were no bells or whistles, no bright lights or thundering noises, but everything in my life changed! All my sins (past, present, and future) were forgiven and I was adopted into God’s family. I was loved unconditionally and my future was secured for all eternity.

Today, I experience love when I feel unworthy, joy when my heart is broken, peace during life’s raging storms, hope in disappointment and guidance when I need a personal GPS. Jesus meets every need. He has brought meaning, purpose, and direction to my life. He plants dreams within my heart and then brings those dreams to life.

Through Christ, I have the strength to stand-up again when I stumble or get knocked down because I know the foe is defeated and victory is assured.

I am not perfect — just ask my wife! I am simply someone who was lost and God found. I am grateful He came looking for me and reached out His hand in love! I am glad I reached back by faith.

 ^“It was fitting to celebrate and be glad, for this your brother was dead, and is alive; he was lost, and is found.” (Luke 15:32, ESV)

Fast forward to 2017 and I am a children’s pastor with a global ministry. I have learned from my own childhood experience that kids can understand the gospel, repent of sin, believe in Christ, and follow Him for the rest of their lives.

This is a day to celebrate JESUS!