Banquet guests include those struggling with homelessness, food insecurity, poverty, and loneliness.

The Christ in Christmas!

How is it that people find this season more joyful? I can think of a reason: Jesus. He is the joy of this world, our redeemer and hope.

Our guests here at the Mission will face many things this season, one of them being a feeling of hopelessness. Now I don't know if you have ever experienced this, but I can tell you from personal experience that this feeling is very hard to shake off. I believe it is what the devil truly wants us to feel. The best description is found in two words: incomprehensible demoralization. This term describes the feelings one has when they realize they have a problem that is affecting their life, others' lives around them, and their relationship with God.

In my personal experience, this feeling was so present during the holidays and was always heavier around Christmas. The opportunity to reach into the lives of members of our homeless community during the holidays is a unique one. Because people crave connection, the holidays can be a wonderful moment in time to share the joy and love Jesus has for them.

Many of you have been part of our Mission for many years and have possibly seen this, and some of you may just be experiencing this for the first time. Whatever the case, the amazing miracle of offering joy to our homeless neighbors during this season will take place because of your generous partnership.

Please join us in our prayer that our guests be open to receiving help and would even consider entering our program or possibly another recovery option. It would be such a blessing! I pray that you, our partners in this endeavor, will be blessed by Jesus this Christmas in finding your own JOY!

Blessings,
Bill Edwards

Director