‘Jesus is still my friend’ – Maureen’s Story
I was brought up in a Christian family and attended Harlow Baptist Church in Old Harlow. My parents were very involved in church life (my father still is, and my mother is in heaven).
I became a Christian aged 10 and was baptised at 11. I recall giving my testimony to the church, saying ‘Jesus is my friend and saviour,’ which was my simple understanding as a child.
I remember my first Bible reading (Luke 2, the birth of Jesus) in the church and even what I was wearing! We had a music group in the church and I learned to play the guitar so I could join them in my early teens. I also became involved in Sunday school and taught alongside a fabulous teacher, and helped in the Junior Section of the Boys’ Brigade, working alongside her husband.
During my early teens I clearly remember sitting in church next to my parents, listening to the sermon. I was so blessed that instead of the pastor, I saw Jesus in the pulpit! I looked around to see if anyone else could see what I could see, but no, so I turned back and basked in Jesus’ presence. No words. Just peace and love.
Unfortunately I slipped away in my late teens, however He never left me. I was always aware of His existence, His love and presence during those years of my spiritual wilderness when I trained as a nurse, met and married my husband and eventually had four children. Looking back, I realise that I needed that vision of Jesus to be a constant reminder that He was real and that He loved me.
When I was in my early 30s I was invited to the opening of the new building of a local church in east London by a neighbour. We had just moved to the area. All part of God’s amazing plan! I not only rediscovered my childhood faith, but also grew in my understanding of His overwhelming grace, His wonderful mercy, His unfathomable sacrifice and His unconditional love.
The church was Anglican, but vibrant, evangelical and had a baptistery pool. I teased the vicar and said it was a quasi Baptist church!
After a few years at the church, I enquired about being baptised, again, and was allowed to do so as a renewal of my faith. What a truly wonderful occasion which meant so much to me as an adult. I also grew in my understanding of the Holy Spirit and His fruits and gifts.
I helped in the children’s work, helping to run Scramblers, Sunday school for the under 5s, joined in with their holiday club, was part of home groups and became a PCC member.
I learnt more about the Holy Spirit and became part of a small group of ladies who prayed for others, with toddlers at our feet, and blackcurrant and crackers for communion.
I qualified as a teacher at 40 and eventually became involved with inclusion, children with additional needs and safeguarding.
There have been personal setbacks since then, including my husband leaving me with four children, one of whom had brain tumour surgery at age 20, and my own health issues leading to early retirement from a job I loved. I then moved to Epping and eventually joined Theydon Bois Baptist Church.
Throughout all of this, with God’s amazing love, provision and guidance, and lots of prayers by many dear Christians, I have been led to Bishop’s Stortford and to this church. I moved during the pandemic and joined in activities online, including life groups, prayer meetings, and church meetings since becoming a member. What a delight during lockdowns to be part of Julie’s and Mary’s quiz nights! I'm so grateful for their friendship and care.
I’m still on my continuing journey with God, and am often overwhelmed by His love and His goodness. I love being in His presence and praying for others in their time of need. I rejoice that Jesus is my saviour, and He is still my friend!
What a friend we have in Jesus
All our sins and griefs to bear
And what a privilege to carry
Everything to God in prayer
