Rescued From the Valley
Michael, a current student of the New Life Recovery Program, was raised by two loving parents in the City of Omaha. He describes his mother and father as disciplined, hard-working, and loving. When Michael was just 12 years old, he began following the wrong crowd and was introduced to meth. Michael’s addiction created a barrier of conflict between him and his parents throughout his teenage years, eventually leading Michael to a life of homelessness by the age of 17.
He started to seclude himself from loved ones, began living in his car, and would continuously end up in jail for theft.
“I began to make a living out of stealing from anyone I knew, and was a heavy burden to both of my parents because of my theft issues,” said Michael. “Being homeless, I felt humiliated and considered myself a junkie.”
In Early 2019, Michael was arrested for the theft and destruction of a trailer belonging to Meadows Church. While Michael sat in jail, a friend gave him an application for Open Door Mission’s New Life Recovery Program. Michael was unsure if he wanted to join the program until he received a visit from the Pastor of Meadows Church. Pastor Monte’s visit offered Michael forgiveness, to which he was grateful for, and they soon developed a spiritual friendship.
Pastor Monte led Michael to give his life to Christ and encouraged him to join the New Life Recovery Program so that he could find a resolution for his addiction.
“When I first arrived at Open Door Mission, I was incredibly humbled to see how much the Mission helped those struggling with addiction and homelessness,” said Michael “If it were not for Open Door Mission, I would either still be homeless or possibly in jail.”
As Michael progressed within the program, he began to grow both spiritually and emotionally. He found a greater understanding of his addictions through the classes and Christ. He has gained the discipline of sobriety. Michael’s work ethic and integrity also began to sharpen through his volunteer work at the Timberlake Outreach Center. His growth within the program has given him a different outlook on life and his future.
Michael says, “My hope for the future is becoming a pastor and serving others through ministry. I want to see people rescued from the same valley I was once in. I also hope to be an example for my children and to show them in action that I am a responsible, loving father.”
Michael is thankful for each donor who supports Open Door Mission.
I have made you known to them, and will continue to make you known in order that the love you have for me may be in them and that I myself may be in them.
~ John 17:26
