It is not uncommon for the men residing at Threshold House to have lost family and friends; some because their family will have little or nothing to do with them now, and some have lost family in tragic circumstances. Childhood trauma is also not uncommon, and relapse is not unheard of among the men, but they do want to get better. Some love Jesus, and all want to trust Him to free them from addiction.
We recently attended a men’s conference at a nearby church. We took 14 guys, all in various stages of recovery, from beginner to almost graduated. Thanks to the kindness of others, we had money to cover meals, a vehicle big enough to transport everyone, and a place to sleep. God is good!
We listened to their reflections during a morning “check-in” on how great the weekend and teaching had been. As the weeks go by, we anticipate transformative changes helping them in recovery and to be the men God created them to be.
We can read “be alert” to mean “be awake, be aware.” In this ministry, there is a great deal of addiction, trauma, and an undercurrent of some not-so-Christian activities. I believe God is reminding us to be aware of not only the presence of these powerful forces and to be alert but also to be aware of the need to be in a constant state of prayer.
Pray for an abundance of peace during a leadership transition at Threshold House.
Pray that the residents who attended the men’s conference would be transformed through what they learned, and how God worked in their lives.
Pray that we will be rooted in Christ and continue to share hope each day at Threshold House.
Ephesians 6:18, “And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert [emphasis added] and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people.” (NIV)