Christmas Letter

So God created human beings, making them to be like himself. He created them male and female

GNT, Genesis 1:27

Dear friends,

Let me set the context. In this season where we celebrate the earthly birth of God in the person of Jesus Christ, it is so important to keep in mind that every person, let me repeat that every person conceived, was created in the image of God. NO exceptions.

Why is that important? In the short 4 months that I’ve been in my role at Next Step Ministries, I have seen the results of the evils one human being can do to another. I know, I know, where’s the Merry Christmas?

Hold on to your hats. For all the evil I’ve seen, the flip side simply brings an abundance of joy that far surpasses any evil. I’ve witnessed first-hand the physical transformation of three women in our program, women who have blossomed from being defeated, scared, bruised and battered with no hope to young women who are ready to take on the world, now feeling empowered, confident, filled with visions and plans for a bright future.They have gone from not wanting to get out of bed, to getting up early and going on weekend hikes and climbing mountain peaks. With the confidence to walk with their heads held high, that can only come from knowing that despite their past, they are made in the image of God.

As I write this note, teary eyed, I’m reminded: it takes a ‘village’ to lift-up and walk alongside the women we serve. Bringing them from a place of despair to a place of believing in themselves would not be possible without your help. We, the staff at Next Step Ministries, have the privilege of being the hands, feet, eyes and ears to these precious daughters of God. Thank you, thank you, thank you, to all of you who support us through prayer, volunteering and finances. We do not take stewardship lightly and are constantly reviewing ways of getting the most out of the resources you have entrusted to us. None of this would be possible without each of you being a part of our participants circle of support.

On behalf of the entire staff and Board, I want to wish each of you, and those you love, a very blessed Christmas with all the richness, joy, and peace that the new year will bring.

Shalom,

George