But I am like an olive tree flourishing in the house of God; I trust in God’s unfailing love forever and ever. Psalm 52:8

Thrive is the word God has given us for The Journey Home this year. Yes, we want our guests to move forward with being able to provide for themselves and their children. We support them with spiritual, financial, vocational and practical education to prepare them for their next steps. These allow them to survive. However, we truly want much more for them. We desire to see them thrive, to flourish.

A definition of “to thrive” in a Biblical context “implies flourishing, prospering, and living a life of purpose and abundance, both materially and spiritually. It suggests a state of growth and well-being, rooted in a relationship with God and a commitment to His principles.” This is our focus and what we strive for with each of our guests. Please join us in prayer for God’s wisdom and guidance as we seek to continue to provide the physical, spiritual and emotional environment for our guests to have the abundant life God intends. They face many challenges and so do we as staff, so your prayers are crucial to TJH ministry.

Two new families have been admitted in the past few weeks. In morning devotions on Tuesday, one of the new guests was talking to me about her experience so far. She said she was nervous about coming to live at TJH, and is relieved and pleased that people have been so kind and caring towards her and her daughters. “Our journey has begun,” she says, “I know it will be hard at times, but I want to do the work because I need to get my life on the right track.” We appreciate you joining us in prayer for these new families to truly thrive.

Save the date for our Annual Banquet on Saturday, August 23rd. Please join us for an update on the amazing things God is doing, to hear personal stories of impact from a few guests, to enjoy a yummy meal, and to be encouraged by wonderful fellowship. We would love to spend the evening with you. The theme is “Thriving in God’s Timing” and tickets will be available to purchase June 1. For those that have the time and interest, we are in need of volunteers to help the evening go smoothly, so please let us know if you are available.

On June 14th, Louisa Baptist Church is hosting our Annual Yard Sale for the benefit of TJH. You can learn more here. Whether you plan to donate items after you do some Spring cleaning or want to shop for bargains that day, we hope that you will participate in this event. Thank you.

Are you looking for a way to get involved in our community and help support the journey of our guests? We are recruiting volunteers to help with occasional transportation needs for our guests and their families. These are trips to the DMV, job interviews, medical appointments or other necessary trips to help them get back on their feet. If you or someone you know is interested in helping with transportation, please reach out to us today!

Praises:

· For the faith of our guests that is flourishing as they experience God’s love.

· 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 a successful Annual Yard Sale at Louisa Baptist on June 14th.

· For the preparations and planning for the Annual Banquet August 23rd.

· For many people to attend the Annual Banquet and be encouraged.

· 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 vehicles, 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.

Trusting in God’s unfailing love,

Debby

Debby Read, RN
Executive Director
The Journey Home