Bill Boots on the Ground
How do you want to be remembered?
What is your legacy? How do you want others to think of you when they remember your life? I was able to attend a family reunion recently where we spoke of many of our family members and the memories we had with them. When I reflect on legacy and what it means—a gift that is handed down, endowed or conveyed from one person to another—I think of many of you who support the Mission and its work. Our guests also have the desire to have their legacies remembered by others—and not for all of the brokenness and tragedy.
Your contributions to the Mission help in so many ways. It would take hundreds of pages to capture them all, but I can recall one story for you here of a man whose life is forever changed. His name is Sam and he was homeless for more than 15 years in Victorville and throughout the High Desert. Sam had a very hard childhood, struggling in poverty and with a lack of resources to help. This led Sam to a 25-year alcohol and drug addiction. Sam would come to the Mission for meals, showers, clothing, hygiene, and prayer. You see, Sam is a believer in Jesus and had been a believer, but was stuck in his addictions and was struggling. Now I am happy to report that Sam is clean and sober for several years and is doing amazing!
This is just one success story of thousands that over the past 20 years the Rescue Mission Alliance Victor Valley has been able to play a part in. I am so grateful to all of you who have chosen to support the work of the Mission. We could not accomplish this for more people like Sam if it were not for your support. Jesus left His legacy, His Disciples, and we are called in Matthew 28:19-20:
“Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”
Now this is exactly who Sam is today—a disciple—and he will speak to anyone who will listen about Jesus and how He saved his life. I am blessed to be able to do this work and see God work in lives every day, and I am forever grateful to all of you, who pour into the legacy of the Mission. You are truly our partners in this ministry.
Blessings,
Bill Edwards
Mission Director
If you would like to help by volunteering or donating, you can call the Mission at 760-955-5958. We have many opportunities available for you to serve those in need.