"This past year has been one of witnessing miraculous change in the lives of those who finally surrendered their hearts to Jesus and let Him take control."

As we just finished celebrating Thanksgiving, I am amazed by God’s goodness. This year has been one of provision, miracles, and loss.

It has been incredible to see how God provided for Gateway Woods in so many ways. God sent us three houseparent couples and two new assistant houseparents this year.  This has been a huge answer to prayer and has allowed us to reopen Maple House. It never ceases to amaze me how God provides financially for the ministry through the generosity of His children. This generosity was on full display at this year’s auction when we raised over one million dollars in one weekend! It is humbling to see and feel the loving support of the family of God.

In October, we were excited and thankful to move into The Commons (our new office building). What a blessing to have our services and admin support staff under the same roof again. Thank you to all who prayed for and supported this campus transformation project.

This past year has been one of witnessing miraculous change in the lives of those who finally surrendered their hearts to Jesus and let Him take control. I personally have witnessed five former residents and foster kids surrender their lives to Jesus and start a brand-new spiritual journey with the Lord. What a beautiful thing to watch those who lived here 10, 15, and even 20 years ago, finally surrender their life to the Lord. Praise God that He is continuing to call souls into a saving relationship with Himself!!

Lastly, we experienced the recent loss of a dear friend, former houseparent and current board member when Dustin Hodel passed away from the ‘land of the dying to enter the land of the living.’ As someone who had the opportunity to serve alongside Dustin for multiple years, his passing is one that evokes a full range of emotions.

There is grief and sorrow in losing a dear brother in Christ, but thanks be to God for the hope of heaven through Jesus Christ! It’s in these moments that I am quickly reminded that this world is oh-so-temporary, and what really matters are the things that are eternal.

“Thanks be unto God for His unspeakable gift.” 2 Cor. 9:15