In Ephesians 2:1-3 (NIV) it says, "As for you, you were dead in your transgressions and sins, in which you used to live when you followed the ways of this world and of the ruler of the kingdom of the air, the spirit who is now at work in those who are disobedient. All of us lived among them at one time, gratifying the cravings of our sinful nature and following its desires and thoughts.  Like the rest, we were by nature objects of wrath."

 

I, Ramon Bautista, was dead in my transgressions and sins.  For years I had many vices like smoking, drinking alcohol and was hooked with drugs.  One time, my friend and I were on the front page of a newspaper because we were involved with drug pushing.  Pastor Samuel Jackson and my older sister Luz saw my photo in the newspaper and through that they were able to trace where I was.  They didn't know my whereabouts for a long time.They came to see me and prayed for me; prayed for transformation to take place in my life. 

 

Years passed and I was the same, enjoying life's pleasures for a moment but most of the time lonely and out of touch from my family especially at Christmas time. I was sent to a rehabilitation center by my family to help me recover but still I go went to my old self. Even in these times never stopped people to pray for me like Pastor Sam, Ate Luz, my family, the church and all whom they asked for prayers.  

When 2002 came, they encouraged me to attend the Discipleship Training School of YWAM (Youth With A Mission).   It was in this school that my eyes were opened and I accepted Jesus Christ as my personal Lord and Savior.  I repented from my sins and started living as a new member of God's family. Yes there were many struggles with sins and temptations but God was so faithful to carry me through.  And now I'm serving as staff/base leader of YWAM Bohol, Philippines with my wife and pretty soon (days to go) my son. His name will be John Samuel.  The name Samuel is after the name of Pastor Sam who really prayed and supported me. 

 

As what I've said Christmas time for me was lonely and alone but now I'm so blessed to have a godly wife and a son coming.  Praise be to the Lord God Almighty!       

 

My special thanks to Pastor Sam and the whole congregation of Eastside Community Church!  God bless you all!