Returning to My Hometown — With New Peace
Signs of the Kingdom | September 2026
After our time ministering along the road, Ruthie and I continued our journey toward Ashtabula, Ohio — the place where I grew up.
We drove about seven hours and stayed at Geneva State Park, near Lake Erie.
This part of our journey was different from the other places we visited. It wasn't primarily about preaching or holding ministry meetings. It was personal. I wanted to show Ruthie where I came from and share a part of my life she had never experienced firsthand.
Returning to Where I Grew Up
Coming back to my hometown brought back many memories.
Growing up, I struggled with insecurity, depression, and unhappiness. There were times when I didn't have the peace that I have today.
Returning to familiar places reminded me of who I used to be and how much my life has changed.
But this time, I was not coming back as the same person.
I have a different perspective on life now. I have peace in my heart that I didn't have back then.
It reminded me of what Jesus said:
"Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you." — John 14:27 (KJV)
Looking back at my past reminded me how much I have to be thankful for.
Revisiting My Old School
Another meaningful part of our trip was visiting South Ridge Christian Academy in Conneaut, Ohio, where I attended school many years ago.
Standing in front of my old school brought back a mixture of memories. Some were good, while others reminded me of the struggles and challenges I faced growing up.
It felt different returning after so many years. I could look back at those experiences with a different perspective and appreciate how much my life has changed.
The past is part of my story, but it no longer defines who I am today.
Through Jesus Christ, I have found peace and a new direction in life. I'm thankful for how far the Lord has brought me.
Today, I am thankful for the peace and new life I have through Jesus Christ.
Sharing My Hometown With Ruthie
One of the special parts of this visit was introducing Ruthie to more of my family.
She had the opportunity to meet my aunt, cousin, and brother.
It meant a lot to me to have her there and to share those family connections with her.
We also spent time exploring the Lake Erie area.
Ruthie especially enjoyed walking along the beach and hunting for interesting rocks. It was something simple, but she really enjoyed it.
We were making new memories together in a place that held so many old memories for me.
Old Memories and New Beginnings
Sometimes we revisit places that remind us of difficult seasons in our lives.
But those places do not have to define who we are today.
For me, returning to Ohio was an opportunity to remember where I came from while being thankful for where I am now.
I cannot change my past, but I can thank God for His mercy and for the peace I have found in Jesus Christ.
Continuing Our Journey
After our time in Ohio, Ruthie and I continued toward Roscoe, Illinois, for a prayer retreat.
Little did we know how fitting that next part of our journey would be.
After reflecting on my past and the peace I have today, we were about to spend time focusing on something even more important: knowing our heavenly Father and growing closer to Him.
That will be the next part of our story.
All glory to Jesus Christ.
Signs of the Kingdom
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