FROM MY FRIEND, CHARLES KILLIAN

A Story of Grace

The earliest remembrance I had of God was with a sainted woman by the name of Grace Huffman. She lived in our small town of Tyner, Indiana, barely a hundred people. 

Early in my life, Grace befriended me. I was often at her home, eating cookies, listening to her singing. She loved me and tutored me, even though I had no idea what was going on. 

Many were the times she prayed for me, even though I wondered if I would ever find my way to God. It all seemed like a ‘dead end’ and I felt alone and worried. 

I recall that time when I agonized at the altar of a small country church. As I knelt there, struggling, Grace came to me and tenderly said, “Charlie, God is not mad at you. He loves you and wants you to follow Him.” Silently, I lifted my sad eyes to Grace, and said, “You mean, God is not mad at me?” She looked at me and said it three times—God is not mad at you.

It was the beginning of a new day.  I discovered peace! And Grace added this gift, “You have been touched by the living power of FORGIVENESS”.

Seventy years ago…I recall the event as if it occurred last night. In fact, it did. Grace and Peace to you all.