Longing For Peace

The events of this year have provided all of us with plenty of opportunities for our hearts to grow anxious. We’ve been faced with COVID-19, social/racial unrest, an incredibly divisive election season, and then just the challenges we each face personally. I walked through the loss of my father early in 2020, and I know so many others who have faced the loss of loved ones this year. There have been strained relationships, loss of jobs, the challenge of children in and out of school, friends/families with cancer diagnoses and other sickness, loss of opportunities, and it seems the list goes on and on. I can honestly say I’ve never lived through a year like this. It has left me longing for peace in my own heart.

As we enter the Christmas season, I’m thankful for the Prince of Peace.  I need to hear and believe Jesus’ words from John 14:27: “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.” Jesus’ word of promise reminds us that there is peace to be found in the midst of the storm and challenges.

Here at the Joy House we’ve experienced God’s faithfulness in the midst of the challenges of this year. We’ve seen God change the lives of teens and families we serve (please be sure to read Wyatt’s story). Through our counseling center we’ve walked alongside those with marriage struggles, anxiety, depression and other life issues. The Lord has faithfully met many of our clients in their struggles, bringing peace and healing. We’ve also experienced God’s hand through unexpected financial provision and other resources. God has made it clear that He is with us in midst of the storms and challenges.

Due to COVID, our plans for breaking ground on the new girls’ home were delayed, but we should be breaking ground soon. We hope to open that home during 2021. We also have an incredible opportunity to complete our capital campaign in the next few months. Please read about that in the accompanying story.

Thank you for your continued partnership in making a difference in the lives of those we serve. I know many of you consider ministry investments at year-end. We need support for both our day-to-day ministry and our capital opportunity. You can find instructions on making a year-end gift on the following page. Thank you for your consideration. I hope that you will know the PEACE of Christ during this Christmas season when we celebrate His birth.
Merry Christmas,
Steve