Leaving the past behind can be a difficult thing because memories can hold one captive to what used to be. For some of us, a darkness that is shameful and painful lurks in the shadows of the past, never letting us forget, no matter how hard we try.

My personal history of remorse concerning my past prompted me to write this story, Radiant Faces. After thirty years of trying to suppress my feelings of shame and guilt because of choosing abortion…twice, I finally took steps in 2006 to heal that wound. I was a Christ follower by then, but could not believe that God would forgive the most dreadful sin of abortion. And I couldn’t stop blaming myself for doing such a thing.

I knew I had to address this issue and find some answers because I just couldn’t feel the joy of knowing the Lord when I continually worried that He didn’t see me as worthy to be in His presence. Having worked at keeping this secret for so long, it was a fearful step to take to seek help in healing from this shame. How could I tell anyone that I took the life of my own children?

God put the answer to that dilemma right in my hands. One Sunday at church while I read the bulletin, there it was…Forgiven and Set Free Bible Study—A nine week class for post-abortive women. With trepidation and shaky hands, I reluctantly signed up for the class.

My relationship with the Lord grew while going through the Forgiven and Set Free Bible study, and I knew without a doubt that there was no longer any condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus (Rom 8:1). What peace! I finally was able to let go of the feelings of being inadequate in the eyes of God. And I took to heart the scripture that this book is named from, “Those who look to Him are radiant, their faces are never covered with shame.” Psalm 34:5

My heart’s desire is that this book would prompt those who don’t know the forgiveness of Jesus, to seek Him out, get to know Him. Believe Him when He says that He is the light and He will help us come out of the darkness.

“I have come into the world as a light, so that no one who believes in me should stay in the darkness.”   John 12:46