Dear Friends,

In addition to our everyday work with the poor and needy, we have been doing some strategic planning at the Denver Rescue Mission. We’re thinking about how our ministry can become better; we’re asking ourselves, “What is it that we are really good at? What values make us effective, and what more can we do?”

One of those values is compassion, caring for people at their every point of need. While thinking about compassion, I came across a recent article in COBiz Magazine, written by Editor Mike Cote. Mike writes,

“…anyone who has reported on homelessness knows solving the problem requires far more than just finding housing and jobs. What drives people to homelessness is often less about the lack of a place to live but more importantly a lack of a meaningful life and sense of self-worth.”

Mike could not be more correct in this statement. Addressing homelessness effectively is also about addressing hopelessness! This is why, when people come to us for food, a temporary bed, clothing, or an opportunity to enter our New Life Program, we tell them, “God loves you and has a purpose for your life.” The people we help need more than just housing. They need a way out of the cycle of poverty, a ray of hope we believe Jesus can bring. This is the compassion of Christ, and this is the value behind all we do. Christ is what makes us different. His hope is where real compassion begins.

Thank you for joining us as we change lives in the name of Christ!

God bless,

Brad Meuli