Abide in Me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself unless it abides in the vine, so neither can you unless you abide in Me. I am the vine, you are the branches; he who abides in Me and I in him, he bears much fruit, for apart from Me you can do nothing. John 15:4-5
Yum. Fresh vegetables from many of our gardens are being enjoyed this time of year. The work of planting, pruning, and watering are resulting in the fruit of our labors. It is a joy for staff, volunteers and guests that planted TJH garden to now eat the harvest. We especially like to see how growing the veggies makes it much more likely that the children will eat them!
The community dinners often have these fresh vegetables included. I wish you could experience the busy food preparation and lively interactions between individuals at these meal times. Seven children are currently living at the home and their joyful noises would make you smile. One child commented on how she loves having friends to play with at “her home”. Ah…sweet community is building as the families get to know one another and learn to live in the same home with the joys and challenges that brings.
This garden analogy reminds us of the importance of allowing God to work in our lives as we stay connected to Him. As we abide in Him and allow Him to flow through us, fruit is produced. We as staff want to be connected to Jesus in a way that allows Him to overflow through us to our guests who desperately need to know Jesus. We want to help them to remain connected to Him for a fruitful life. The life coaching, counseling, budgeting, parenting and Bible study classes are all a part of intentional input into helping them to rebuild their lives.
Thank you for being part of the success of the guests as you invest your prayers, your finances and your time in their lives. An upcoming opportunity to support them is to attend our Annual Fundraiser Banquet on Saturday, August 26.
We believe you will be encouraged to hear what God is doing in and through TJH. Two of our guests will be sharing about their experience at TJH. A flyer is attached with details. Please note that you can now go to our website and register online and pay for your tickets. If you would like to pay by check, please contact us to arrange payment. Tickets are $30 per person. Please consider getting a table for six at $150 and inviting friends. Or, think about paying for a guest of TJH to attend the banquet.
Praises:
- For our new families and for how well they are adjusting.
- For the abundance of our garden and the enjoyment of the produce.
- For the blessing of joining with you in God’s work as families and individuals rebuild their lives.
- For the way God and His Word transforms lives as we abide in Him.
- 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 our new families who have many obstacles to face in rebuilding their lives.
- For wisdom for staff as we try to assist families with their unique needs.
- For the planning of the Annual Fundraising Banquet August 26.
- For many people to attend the Banquet to learn about what God is doing.
- For God’s provision of vehicles and jobs 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.
Blessings,
Debby
For TJH Staff
Debby Read, RN
Executive Director
The Journey Home
