One Year

One year.

And what at year it has been. 

It was a huge move full of changes and transitions. Thanks to Covid, this whole year has been one long experiment in flexibility. But, we have been so blessed.  Thankfully, things have gone really well. We've learned and we've grown.  Isolation wasn't so isolating when you are surrounded by other staff and residents.  It's been hard to be farther away from friends and family. But, we are slowly learning to accept and make things work. 

We’ve loved working as the body of Christ, sharing the gospel of hope to teens. We’ve loved building relationships and watching residents grow. Sometimes the best relationship building experiences have happened in the midst of crisis, both with residents and with other staff. 

The decision to come to Gateway was difficult. I was stubborn and fearful. Our kids have shown us time and time again that not only were some of our fears unfounded, that they are far greater lights for Jesus than we could ever have imagined. They have adapted to the craziness of house parent life with ease. They love the residents without judgement.  I'm so thankful this is something we can do as a family. 

However, working as a family comes with challenges too. These kids are busy and crazy and somedays test my patience more than the residents do. Our marriage and parenting are on display to the residents. 

Each day has been a new experience.  Humans are flawed.  Teenagers aren’t exactly always the most pleasant of human beings.  They bring all sorts of challenges, but beyond that, our own human nature makes our own interactions with them flawed. 

We are still in need of more staff, couples and singles, so pray. Pray that God would continue to move in hearts. And, maybe He will work in the hearts of someone with is just as stubborn and fearful as I was. 

Not everything has been easy. Far from it. But, this adventure has been just that: an adventure. I'm so thankful for this year and what God has done with us and with Gateway.  He has prepared for and provided for each of us every step of the way. 

In Christ
~Michelle