May the LORD cause you to flourish, both you and your children. Psalm 115:14

The Journey Home staff wish you abundant blessings from the Lord in this new year. “May the LORD cause you to flourish, both you and your children.”

This new year begins with TJH celebrating our doors opening five years ago this month. Your partnership with the staff, board and volunteers of TJH has allowed us to minister to twenty-seven families in those impactful years (despite a slow opening due to Covid). I can’t wait to see what God will do in the next five years!

Flourish is a good word to describe what is happening in the lives of our guests and their children. They are thriving in TJH where they are given guidance and support in a loving environment. They are learning to rebuild their lives through their budgeting, parenting, life coaching and Bible study classes.

In a recent Bible study lesson, we were discussing what God’s Word says about worry. One of the women mentioned that she used to worry all the time. I asked her what had changed and she said, “Coming to TJH. I feel at peace here.” She has come to believe in Jesus while at TJH and is growing in her faith. She is thriving and so is her child.

Another guest recently called me from work to say thank you for all TJH has done in her life. She found out that day that she might have a $500 car repair. She said, “You all have prepared me so well for this. I have budgeted and have money in my emergency account for these repairs. And amazingly I am not panicking, because you all have helped me to trust God. I know He has got this.” Wow. Her words warmed our hearts. She has been fully engaged in the program at TJH and has prospered.

With encouragement and accountability, TJH families and their children are flourishing. Thank you for joining us in helping individuals and their children move towards wholeness and independence. Please join us in praying for wisdom for the staff in helping our families to overcome obstacles. We are so grateful for your partnership and your prayers.

Praises:

· For the smooth transition in staffing changes and the renewed excitement in our calling to minister at TJH.

· For the growth in their faith and in their independence that many guests are experiencing.

· For the blessing of joining with you in God’s work as families and individuals rebuild their lives.

· For TJH staff and volunteers and for their commitment to the ministry.

· For TJH Board and for their spiritual leadership.

· For our faithful supporters of TJH.

· For the continued partnership in ministry with our community.

Prayer requests:

· For wisdom as we seek God’s leading in helping our guests flourish.

· For relationships among guests and staff to be loving and God focused.

· For our new families who have many barriers to face in rebuilding their lives.

· For God’s provision of a vehicle, jobs, and childcare for our guests.

· For God to give us discernment regarding applicants. Several are in the process.

· For us to be an example of Jesus as we love and encourage our families and point them to Him.

· For new churches and individuals to join in financial and prayer support of TJH.

Praying you have a blessed new year,

Debby

Debby Read, RN

Executive Director