As Christmas rapidly approaches, we think of family, friends and community. We make plans to travel to see people, to go to our children’s winter band concerts, to join in our homes with a nice Christmas meal, to exchange gifts with each other, and maybe even have a secret Santa gift exchange at work. Really, I could go on and on about the many things that this season brings. But most of all, it is a great reminder of the birth of Jesus and the importance of His life to each of us who believe in Him and His continual impact on this world we live in.

Luke 2:13-14 says: “And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host, praising God and saying, ‘Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, goodwill toward men.’

First, I love that the birth of Jesus caused the angels to praise God for peace and goodwill on earth toward all of us. We need more peace and more goodwill. Secondly, I like that it was a multitude (that is code for a lot!) of angels. Although Jesus was born in a humble stable without pomp and circumstance and with hardly anyone present, His birth caused excitement and great joy among a great company of angels in the spiritual world!

Our lives here on this earth are impacted by multitudes as well. You may have a lot of people to thank for helping shape you into who you are, and for just caring about you. This month’s newsletter talks about a multitude (more like a small group of five committed people) who unselfishly came alongside a mom and her daughter, offering mentor support and a relationship that was needed to help this family change their lives.

And here is the thing, over the years, there have been a multitude of people because of their love of Jesus and what He did for them, that have been mentors for people in need through our Family Rescue Ministry program. My thanks goes to this “great company of angels” who have mentored at Denver Rescue Mission and to our generous donors and committed volunteers.

Merry Christmas and God bless you,

Brad Meuli has been President/CEO at the Mission since 2001. Brad joined the Mission after a 17-year career in banking. Previous to his staff position he served as the Chairman of the Board of Directors. Read his full bio.

This post is part of December’s Changing Lives Newsletter. This month, we’re telling the story of Tonya in, The Greatest Gift: A Caring Community.