August 26th, 2014
Well, summer is coming to an end and with it the kids head back to school and life pretty much carries on as always, that is for most of us. I have literally wept watching as children come and go that have no other choice but to begin the school year at their temporary home, the Madera Rescue Mission. All be it the arrangement is only temporary, I can't help but think of the stigma some of these dear children have to deal with each day. The looks, the insensitive comments, they must all take a toll.
Then I think, "What if the Madera Rescue Mission wasn't there for them, what then?" I shudder to think of the safety issues and the dangers to living on the street, BUT GOD, through YOU, made a difference.
The word "Restoration" can be defined as the act of returning something to its proper condition. At the Madera Rescue Mission, we count on God to do just that by restoring one's dignity, one's purpose and one's joy though the life sustaining Gospel of Jesus Christ. Many likely know this but each evening in both the men's and women's shelters 365 days a year, the Truth of God's Holy Word rings out before any food is dished out, before the showers and clothes are exchanged, and before a safe night's sleep begins. You see my friends, that's what Jesus does: He brings hope to the hopeless and rest to the weary (Psalms 34:18).
Galatians 6:1 Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such an one in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted.
Your compassionate gift made it possible for seven kids to begin their school year in a safe and loving environment, and for that, there is no price or value one could attribute to the simple act of registering and attending school. Balance and stability make it possible for kids to learn and we'd like to think as odd as it might be to start school from the Mission, it's infinitely better than doing it from the back seat of a car holding all one's worldly possessions, or encamped under a picnic table in the park. You have made a difference Dear Friend of the Mission.
Thank you with God's richest blessings,
Mike Unger, Executive Director
Madera Rescue Mission
