2018 is here. Woohoo! I’ve never participated in a New Year’s resolution but I think I get it – we’ve turned over a new leaf, leaving the old behind and with this fresh start it’s easier to comprehend a life-changing habit. As if we’ve gained a super power at the strike of midnight. Okay, calm down. For me rather, it’s a time for my wife and I to reflect on 2017 and bid farewell, while looking forward to the future about what is exciting. We discuss and dream goals and speculate what may be.
But seriously, what’s going to be super about this next year? It may be too early to say but there are some pretty cool things happening out here in Colorado Springs with Next Step Ministries. We’ve hired on a buddy of mine named Denys who has become our Construction Coordinator. Denys and I have spent time skiing, mountain biking, and camping together while growing up in Colorado Springs – all to say we love this state and our community we get to be a part of. So it’s pretty cool to see God bring relationships together to work for His Kingdom. Our goal is to get projects set up early on so it’s even more smooth sailing once the summer hits.
We’ve began a partnership with High Plains Helping Hands (HPHH). They are a food pantry residing on the eastern edge of the Springs – Kansas on one side, the city with Pikes Peak on the other. But they’re not your average food pantry. They currently have two 3,000 sq ft aquaponic structures growing healthy sustainable food for the community. Each aquaponic system is able to employ 2 individuals part-time as they help maintain and grow food. HPHH also desires to build 5-7 more structures for growing food with the help of Next Step. This will employ more people, teach them how to cultivate resources, and give healthy food back to the community. They also desire to turn an extra building into classrooms to teach the community what and how to do what they are already doing, at home. Wow!
We continue with long term partnerships like Family Life Services, Crossfire Ministries, and other outdoor restoration-focused organizations. It is fantastic to see God’s hand in all of this and bringing it all together. Looking back after just 1 summer, I think we are in a great spot for the future and our work alongside this community. Thank you for your prayers! It’s working. Like a super power.
20 Now may the God of peace, who through the blood of the eternal covenant brought back from the dead our Lord Jesus, that great Shepherd of the sheep,
21 equip you with everything good for doing his will, and may he work in us what is pleasing to him, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen.
Hebrews 13:20-21
