Stories

Trusting God with a Willing Heart

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Are you making plans and resolutions for 2021? This can be challenging even in the best of times but with the uncertainties of COVID, planning is more complicated than ever. Outreach Coordinator Teri Kwiatek is trusting God as she considers the programs at the Mission in 2021. With restrictions on services like indoor dining, free showers, and many other programs she organizes, Teri has learned to be flexible. 

A guest stops to choose a new coat

“I just show up each day with a willing heart to do whatever God gives me,” she says. Whether it’s stopping to pray with a guest in the middle of the parking lot or dashing over to Rescued Treasures to select urgently needed items, there is always a need to be met. “We see so much wreckage in people’s lives and sometimes we don’t see a difference for a while,” Teri admits. “But then, suddenly, God shows us what He’s doing. While I was shopping recently, I ran into two men who used to be ‘regulars’ at the Mission. Now, they are both employed and doing well!”

What is Teri’s advice for us as we consider how to serve the Lord and love others this year? “Just show up and be available and willing to do whatever God sends to you. Stop along the way to talk to people. Remember that these are divine appointments and don’t rush through them. Also, put creative people in your life to help with ideas. He will bring help and put people in your life who need you. God gives opportunities, but we have to be bold and take the step.” May the Lord bless you this year as you seek to make Him known through your life! 

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Carol Switzer
Rescued Treasures Coordinator

Carol empowers the volunteers in Rescued Treasures. Together, they provide clothing people need for themselves and their families. Carol also runs Crossed Bridges with her husband Jonathan. She enjoys playing any sport with a ball, crocheting, bike riding, and spending time with her husband and five children. 

“He who loves God must love his brother also.” (1 John 4:21) explains what wakes Carol up in the morning to begin a new day; being able to serve the Lord while working with people, whether it be administratively or relationally. She loves hearing the testimonies of how Jesus has changed people’s lives, especially because He’s done so much for her!