The Hope of the Gospel
It is sometimes hard to measure the full impact of our ministry. If you read our Annual Report, you know that we track numbers pretty closely. We can tell you how many children and families are served every year and where the resources come from that allow us to care for those families and children. But, that is never the whole story.
Sometimes, the full impact of our ministry does not happen until a family is reunited and the parents begin to notice the changes in the life of their child. When a child hears the Gospel and experiences hope, that changes that child’s life. Sometimes, that infusion of hope changes the life of their whole family. I know some of you have already heard this story, but it is so good, I hope you don’t mind me sharing it twice!
Here are the words of one of our youth in care who was baptized a few months ago:
Growing up as a child I spent little time around church. As time went on, I convinced myself that I should not go because I would be uncomfortable. Although I did not have a relationship with God I kind of knew something was missing. I would hear people talk and could not relate. I was once told since I did not know what my religion was or because I never trusted God, no one would trust me. So, I acted as if I knew God and trusted Him. But in reality, I was just scared and confused.
In my life I have been through a lot of tough times. I have experienced rejection with people in school, friends, and even some family. I was always advised to pray and ask God for help. I knew deep down I should, but allowed my hard times to steer me farther away from Him, attempting to control my own life, which I now understand was never meant for me to do.
In the past few weeks, my eyes were opened, and I finally realized the missing puzzle piece in my life. It was simply confessing that I am a sinner and not only asking Jesus to come in my heart but trusting Him with my whole life. All the negative things I was feeling are now gone and replaced with a joy I cannot explain. I am so excited to get baptized and move forward with my next steps.
Thank you for partnering with us and providing the resources for this young person’s life—a life that has truly been changed forever. Through your praying, giving, and serving, eternal differences are made in the lives of children in need every day. Our ministry is in the business of changing lives and restoring hope. I am so glad you are partnering with us! God bless you!
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