The causes for homelessness are numerous. We could probably never list them all. But at the root of every circumstance that leads a person to the state of homelessness is a lack of relationships. Most, if not all our homeless neighbors that stay in our shelters are there because they have nowhere else to go. Those families and friends that were once there for them have moved on … for whatever reason. I can’t count the number of times a friend or family member has dropped someone off at our shelters and said while departing, “Here, their yours, we’re done with them.”
Even if a person accumulates the resources they need to move out of the shelter and get their own place, going it alone is hardly ever the best way. Living in community and support with others is basic to life.
That is why we always promote restoration of relationships. It is sometimes a long, painful process and trust is hard to regain, but it is always worth it.
We are not professional counselors and we sure aren’t naïve enough to believe that every relationship will be restored, but we do know that God teaches us in His word that it is important. Forgiving or seeking forgiveness is essential to living the abundant life that Christ promised.
This past week, 8 men and women graduated from our New Beginnings Program. The chapels were full of people who have supported them and rooted for them. Also in attendance were spouses and children who had been the casualties of their choices. Tears flowed as children saw their moms and dads apologize and vow to never leave them again.
There were also aunts and uncles and grandparents who had prayed for their loved one for years. There were pastors and past graduates there to lend their support.
And without fail, every graduate conveyed that it would be different this time because they now had the most important relationship of all … with Jesus Christ.
Their minds have been renewed, their hearts softened and their souls secured by a savior who will never leave them.
