Jordan Parker - Assistant Resident Director

My name is Jordan Parker, and I'm 33 years old from a small town in Southern Illinois. Throughout my life, I've been adept at running away from God and my problems. I've been to the mission four times, each time fleeing when I felt God beginning to change things in me.

However, this last time was different. I reached my absolute lowest point. I hadn't seen my daughter for over a year, and it seemed like everything that could go wrong in my life did. So, when I returned to the mission, I was determined to get it right and let God take control. On March 8th, 2022, I came back to the Crossville Mission Bible Training Center. It was a challenging return; I was angry and self-pitying. I almost left, but God intervened.

I completed the program for the second time and was nearing the end of my staff commitment when God altered my plans. Instead of going home, I transferred from Crossville, Tennessee to the Lion's Den in April of 2023 to serve as an overseer. This move was undoubtedly God's doing, as it was not my initial desire. God gave me the strength to fulfill my role as overseer, but He wasn't finished with me yet. I am now an Assistant Resident Director.

Since arriving here, I've been able to reconnect with my daughter and fully restore my relationship with my family. I am no longer the person I was when I first arrived. I now carry the joy of the Lord with me, a testament to His transformative power. He changed me from a 'worthless junkie' to a man of God, a father, and the person I've always wanted to be.

The changes in my life are a clear example that if God can change someone like me, He can change anyone. Joshua 1:9 says, "Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go." This verse embodies my journey. I am certain that God is the reason I am alive today. He never left me, even when I tried to shut Him out of my life.