The Second Time, He Answered for Himself

John James grew up in church in what is now Ford Heights, Illinois. His mother and grandmother made church, prayer, music, and stories about God's faithfulness part of everyday life.

At age twelve, his pastor lined up the young people and asked each whether they wanted to give their lives to Christ.

John said no.

His younger sister had answered no before him, and he followed her decision.

The following Sunday, the pastor asked them again.

This time John decided that his answer could not depend on anyone standing beside him.

He said yes.

Decades later, he still identifies that decision as the beginning of the faith that shaped the rest of his life.