Dear friend,
What is the best Christmas you have ever had? Was it when you were little and received the gift you had been wanting? Perhaps something special happened when you were in high school or your parent came back from a military deployment right before Christmas. That would be a Christmas to remember! Although I’m not sure which Christmas is my absolute favorite, I have a grandson who was born two years ago on Christmas Eve, and not much can top that!
For many of the people we work with, like Mark featured in this month’s newsletter, Christmas does not have that Norman Rockwell warm family feeling. Christmas for those in need doesn’t mean much more than any other day. In fact, for many of those experiencing homelessness, it can be a very sad reminder of the family and home they no longer have because of their circumstances.
This is why we strive to make the men in our New Life Program feel like they are special with the Bless Our Brothers Christmas dinner and a gift from generous donors. One wrapped present and a meal may not seem like much, but this simple expression of love does so much to encourage and lift up our men. This is our way of saying, “God loves you and has a plan for your life, and by the way, we love you too! We know that you can do this!”
Through the Bless Our Brothers event, we have the opportunity to act like Barnabas from the Bible, as an encourager and as a cheerleader. Who does not need more encouragement not only this Christmas, but every day? Thank you for partnering with us as we encourage men in our New Life Program to not only see Christmas differently, but to see themselves through God’s eyes as His beloved.
Merry Christmas to you! May this be your best Christmas yet!
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 a part of December’s Changing Lives Newsletter. This month features Mark’s journey of recovery and transformation in the New Life Program at The Crossing.
