How could a loving God do this? I stopped going to church. I was at war with myself, frustrated with God, and looking for answers.
“I graduated high school at 18, met my future wife at 19, and married at 21. My son was born on my 23rd birthday in 1982. I had a good job, but my wife convinced me to join the army. It taught me a lot about myself, but that is also where I learned to drink. I got out of the army in 1986. We had a daughter in 1988, but in 1989 my wife and I separated. I started drinking heavily and hanging out at the bars. I worked through the temporary agencies just to buy alcohol, paying bills when I could. In 1991 we got divorced. I eventually lost my house and filed bankruptcy.”
Ed’s life continued a downward spiral with failed relationships, DUI’s and jail time. He was living with his parents, neglecting his children, and driving a wedge in his relationship with his family–except his father, who never gave up on him. Over the next couple of years, Ed’s mother moved to a nursing home and his father later died in 2005 from an aggressive form of cancer. His father’s death was a devastating loss to Ed. The family had to sell the house, leaving Ed without a home. Because of his addiction, he could not live with his brother or sister. It was then that his brother suggested that Ed enter the Haven of Rest residential program.
“In June of 2005 I came to Haven of Rest and was put on a waiting list. On August 8, 2005, I entered the program. I couldn’t get enough of the Bible and Bible studies. I rededicated my life to Christ. I finally found the answer to all those years of frustration and anguish. I learned how to apply the Bible to my everyday life, and to use God’s Word to get through each day, regardless of the adversities. After six months of Bible study, the mission offered me an internship working in the men’s day room. I accepted. I loved my work. And all the while I continued to grow in my walk with Christ. I started spending more time with my kids. During this time my ex-wife died of cancer. It was the first time I had ever been there for my children. Today I enjoy a restored relationship with my children and I have a granddaughter!
“In November of 2006, Haven of Rest offered me a full-time third-shift position working in the men’s day room. I was thrilled! I love the mission, the people here. I love what they’ve taught me. There is nothing greater than being able to spread the gospel. I get to come to work every night to talk about God. I am here for God, to use me as He will. He has restored my life and I praise Him for it!”
