“Your body is a Temple, use every part of it to give glory back to God." ~ Corinthians 6:19-20
Her downward spiral came quickly.
After scripts for postsurgical pain ran out, the single mother of two began
buying pills off the street. The next thing Joy knew she was shooting heroin
and living under parked cars for safety. She lost her electrician job, her car,
her friends, and the custody of her children.
Arrested multiple times for possession, theft, and fraudulent
use of credit cards, local police knew her well. They treated her with contempt;
as if she was worthless.
But there was one cop who saw through her unsightly
appearance and always treated her respectfully. Even through the haze of
addiction, Joy saw something different in Officer Terry’s eyes – a kindness,
empathy, and hope that she desperately needed.
While serving a six-month sentence in the county jail, addiction
stalked her like a ravenous beast. She finally reached a breaking point, given
a blunt choice between life and death. It was there, as part of the jail
ministry, that Joy had a profound conversion to Christ and found the strength
to get clean for the first time in many years.
After her release, Joy moved in with her Mom, restored
relationships with her kids, and worked two jobs. She also found time to visit
that same jail where she counseled other women battling addiction, encouraging
their spiritual growth and teaching clean-life skills. In time, she began her
own nonprofit, The Place of Grace Center, a recovery program for women.
The story’s not over – Divine Providence was about to move her a second time.
She simply couldn’t deny God’s nudging.
Just as amazing as her willingness to donate, blood work
proved Joy to be a match. The operation went smoothly and her kidney began
functioning for Terry immediately. It was no coincidence!
Their lives continue to be closely commingled.
Her life has come full circle. She’s
newly married, sober, and busy with the Grace Center. Terry retired from the
police force and enjoys excellent health again. He considers Joy another
daughter. They talk daily by phone and she stops by his house for coffee 2-3
times a week.
Both are saving lives – offering kindness, compassion, and hope
to others when they may have none for themselves. Perhaps Terry says it best: “We
all have a purpose for our lives. Ours is to lead others to Christ and
encourage their recovery.” Three cheers to you both!
Dear Lord, show me how the desires You’ve planted
in my heart can grow into a greater purpose for my life. Lead me toward
activities that bring clarity and validation of what I’m being called to fulfill
for Your glory. Amen
