Dear Friends,
In perhaps His most famous sermon—the Sermon on the Mount—Jesus shares the best possible way to live: “Give to the one who asks you, and do not turn away from the one who wants to borrow from you.” Give to the one who asks and do not turn away.
It is easier to give to someone who asks who we know or believe is worthy. Yet, this is not what Jesus commands. Jesus does not qualify by saying, “Give to only those you know or those who appear worthy.” He calls us to give, period. In the same way, Jesus commands us not to turn away. It is so easy to turn away. It seems as if there is need everywhere.
In this newsletter you will read about Dan. He bravely shares his story of hardship and challenge. Dan came to Harvest Farm and asked for help. I am so grateful that the staff welcomed Dan in, they gave to him, they did not turn away. In doing so, Dan’s life was changed. In part because the staff decided to follow the words of Jesus.
This is who Fort Collins Rescue Mission and Harvest Farm are. Jesus is why we do what we do. We are working to change the world, one life at a time, through the power of Christ. Yet, we could not do this work without you.
I am amazed at how God works all things together for good. Not everyone can work for FCRM or the Farm and work closely with guests like Dan. But everyone can follow Jesus and play a role in this work. We could not do this without you and your prayers and financial support. Every time we ask, you respond and do not turn away, and that allows us to give to guests like Dan and not turn away. This is the beauty of God’s Kingdom.
On behalf of the staff and guests of FCRM and the Farm, thank you for your unwavering support. Know that we will be good stewards of all we are given as we help those who come to us.
Grace and Peace,
Dennis Van Kampen
President/CEO
This post is part of July’s Changing Lives Newsletter. This month, we’re sharing Dan’s journey of finding faith and community in: The Coin Flip.
