Testimony of Chris Masingale

Twenty Years - Still Serving the Lord!
From Drugs to Dedicated Service

Often folks will ask about our success rate. I have wondered what, and/or how many, constitutes success. Some might argue if one life is changed that is truly success, while others may want to know if there is more than one. This is just another reason why we enjoy sharing testimonies with you each month. You can rejoice for the one who is being featured in this edition, and know that others have shared their "success" in Jesus, also!

It is truly a blessing to share this story of a former resident of the Durham Rescue Mission with you.

Today, Chris Masingale is a devoted husband and father of three precious children. He is also a deacon in his church. Together, he and his wife teach a Sunday school class for K-5 to Third Grade. He is actively serving the Lord in his home church.

It is always a joy to hear of families who are active in their church. What makes this family special or different? Twenty years ago, Chris had a drug problem and was a resident at the Durham Rescue Mission. Recently, Chris visited us. We are delighted when former residents return and bring us up to date on their lives. Over lunch, Chris shared with our staff what the Lord has done in his life.

About the age of 17, Chris was involved in drugs. Drugs will always lead you to hurt those you love, he said. As his habit grew, he began to steal-even from his parents. He left home and began to sleep in underpasses or wherever he could find a spot. He even stayed under the house of a friend until that person felt it wasn’t right. They had heard of the Durham Rescue Mission and Chris came to the mission for help.

AND... Help is what he found. Ernie Mills got him a job and began to teach him Biblical principles. Chris got off drugs and rededicated his life to the Lord. Since then Chris has continued to grow in his walk with the Lord. He has become a vital member of his church and community. All praise and glory goes to the Lord for His power to change lives! In our book - that's success!