Larry Smith is a family man, a leader in his church, and the Owner of a successful Chick-fil-A Franchise in Orlando. A few months ago, Larry was hospitalized with a critical illness. While in the hospital, he heard God’s voice telling him to let go of all of life’s distractions. That changed Larry's life completely.  Since that day Larry is more passionate than ever about serving God and listening for God’s direction. Although he lost 28 pounds in 3 days, and had three major surgeries in a very brief period of time, Larry wouldn’t change a thing because his time of suffering brought him closer to God.

How does one move from having a successful career as an attorney to becoming the President and CEO of the Orlando Union Rescue Mission? Well, for Freddy Clayton, it didn’t happen overnight. He began his career as an attorney and then worked in the business sector for several years. He moved to Orlando and eventually began volunteering at the mission. He was asked to serve on the Board of Directors and shortly thereafter, he was asked to serve as the interim President and CEO. That interim role became a permanent calling, and he has been serving the homeless community ever since. Freddy downplays his story, and he says he doesn't know how he got to this place, but his life is an example of what one’s life can look like when they journey with Jesus, one day at a time.

Michael is a successful businessman, but for most of his life he struggled with uncontrollable anger, arising from childhood abuse, that eventually landed him in prison for domestic violence. He lost his wife and his children and finally lost his will to live. But at his lowest moment, with a gun in hand, God intervened and showered him with unconditional love. Michael still owns and operates a family business with his brother, but now he is also a Pastor and shares his story about God’s love with anyone who will listen. 

Matthew Columbie is currently on staff at the Orlando Union Rescue Mission. However, prior to becoming an employee at OURM he was a gang member, an armed robber, a drug dealer and an addict. He ended up serving prison time and almost lost his life when a drug deal went bad. Through a Judge who wanted better for him, and the ministry of the servants at OURM, Matthew found Jesus and is now a passionate disciple of Jesus Christ.  

Nichelle surrendered her life to Jesus at the age of 7. She preached her first sermon at 11 years old and became an Evangelist at 17. After college she married her best friend from High School, and began a career in IT, eventually starting her own business. However, no life is without trouble and suffering. Nichelle experienced the loss of a child which rocked her faith and called her to question God. Yet, through it all she learned to trust God. She still declares with boldness that the Lord is good and she is greatly blessed!

Tiki had a difficult childhood. She was abused by a family friend, hit by a drunk driver, and then moved away from her childhood home when she was in middle school. She ended up running away from home and looking for a way to survive. She began making money as a dancer and married at a young age. Her adult life was no easier than her childhood, and she ended up homeless. But God was with her and guided her to the Orlando Union Rescue Mission where she found healing and hope for a brand-new life.  

Dean was at the peak of his career when he was asked to volunteer for a children’s event at his church. He was deeply moved by this experience and began serving in children’s ministry weekly. Eventually Dean left his career to become a full-time Children’s Pastor. He believes God moves in the lives of children and says, “there is no such thing as a junior Holy Spirit.” He believes the Holy Spirit is fully available to adults and children. He is unconventional, creative, and I promise you will be challenged and inspired by his passion for God, children, and families.

Remain steadfast! Be joyful! Take courage! These are words of wisdom that Lynne graciously shares with those who are experiencing life's most difficult trials. She has gone through numerous health crises, childhood abuse, failed marriages, and the loss of her only son, Matthew, who was murdered in 2012. But she has also experienced miraculous recoveries and the sense of God's loving presence throughout all of it!  Her life verse is: "This is my command—be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” (JOSHUA 1:9)

Dawn serves on the Praise Team weekly and is also a gifted Bible teacher. Her passion for Jesus, people, and the Word of God is undeniable. However, Dawn has not always been a Christian. As a matter of fact, she endured years of panic attacks, drug use and overwhelming fear. Her story will surprise you and delight you at the same time. I am excited for you to hear how she was gradually awakened to the presence of Jesus in her life!

John Campbell was born prematurely, suffered several life-threatening childhood illnesses, lost his father at 15 yrs old, and got caught up in the drug world in high school. As an adult, he lost his best friend to suicide and experienced several failed relationships, yet John says he is blessed and credits all of the good in his life to an amazing grace-filled God. John calls himself a disciple and says he's still learning to walk like Jesus, as we all are. However, I think you will agree, the light of Jesus shines through him into a world that desperately needs hope. I pray this episode of Alive! is a blessing to you as you listen to John's personal story.