The Stage of Redemption: My Unexpected Journey from Shame to Worship

Don’t tell me that God can’t redeem your story. 

Don’t tell me that God can’t heal your broken heart. 

Don’t say, “Sundi Jo, that’s great that He can do that for you, but you don’t know what I’ve done. You don’t know what’s happened to me.” 

You’re right. I may not know what you’ve done or what’s happened to you, but God does. And He still wants you. He still wants to redeem the broken pieces. He still wants to hold you. He still offers forgiveness and redemption. 

Don’t tell me God can’t redeem your story. I know He can because He redeemed mine. 

A few months ago, we were walking around the Branson Events Center, formerly known as the Copeland Theatre, built by my friend Roberta and her late husband, Bob. We were thinking about leasing it for Shepherd’s Heart’s new location. 

We got to the stage, and my heart was overwhelmed. The last time I stepped on that stage was around 2007 when Ted Burden asked me to share my testimony. I was a brand new believer (2006). A lot has happened since I stood on that stage. It’s truly a miracle that I’m alive in more ways than one. 

I sat on the stage with Leslie, and Richard snapped a picture as we talked. I didn’t know it until later. I’m still just in awe of God’s goodness. 

On Mother’s Day, we held our first service in the new building. This time, I stood on that stage as a worship leader. How in the jack did that happen? 

Only God. 

Sexually abused by more people than I care to talk about. 

Addicted to pornography from an early age. 

In a homosexual relationship for five years. 

Full of so much shame I could barely make eye contact with people. 

330 lbs. 

But God…. 

He washes away the dirty. 

He redeems the time. 

He restores what the locusts have eaten. 

He cleanses the impurities from our hearts. 

He replaces the shame with a double portion of blessing. 

He calls us His children. 

He is near to the brokenhearted. 

Have I mentioned He redeems the time? 

If He can rescue me, He can rescue you. I promise.