It’s not just that Jesus is the reason for the Christmas season. He is the reason for all seasons. He is the reason for the existence of the Union Gospel Mission. He is the power behind life transformation. He is the source of the love and grace we extend to the poor and homeless. Without Him, this ministry would have little more to offer than fleeting physical comforts. Without Jesus, lasting hope would not start here.

With Jesus, past mistakes are forgiven, and life becomes an adventure full of meaning and purpose. All of Scripture points to the one who welcomes us into His arms, heals our wounds, and sends us forth to enjoy life and tell of His goodness. Consider with me just a few of the names given to Christ in Scripture and what they mean to believers in general and this ministry in particular.

Prince of Peace - Homeless addicts’ lives are full of anxiety. They worry about finding the money for their next high, getting ripped off, getting caught, where they’re going to sleep, and what they’re going to eat. When they’re sober, they’re haunted by shame and guilt for what they have done and the people they have hurt. They are desperate for peace. 

Savior – Ever since the fall, humanity is broken – our relationships dysfunctional, our identities distorted. We are inclined toward self-destruction. Christ is the only one who can grant what we all desperately desire – forgiveness, wholeness, a sense of identity and freedom.

Bread of Life – Jesus did not ignore the physical body. He healed the sick. He fed the five thousand. But he also made it clear that physical sustenance was not enough: “Man does not live by bread alone.” We need more. We need Him. 

Immanuel – “God with us.” We are never alone. There is always someone who knows our plight and cares. God saw Eddie shivering in his van, Steve alone in an abandoned garage, and John sleeping on the streets of Spokane. He saw them, and He guided them to the Mission. He does indeed create a home for the lonely, and He promises – promises – never to leave us or forsake us. 

Jesus also gives us a name. He calls us “friend” and invites us into relationship with Him – the only true cure for loneliness.

Jesus is the Source of the hope offered at the Union Gospel Mission. Thank you for partnering with us to share that hope. I pray that you will be blessed by the same love and grace you have helped us to extend.

-Phil Altmeyer, Executive Director