2021 November #2
By a Joy Junction Staff Member (JBF)
I wonder what you think about when the term “homeless shelter” is mentioned to you?
Do you think of a place where people are dirty and crowded into rooms like cattle? Do you think of a place where people are constantly asking you for money? Do you think of a place where you would feel uncomfortable with your surroundings?
If so, then you have the wrong idea about Joy Junction.
We are a shelter that focuses on keeping families together, and we provide a warm, comfortable setting for those who come to us. It’s their home away from home, so of course, showers are available and there is plenty of room for each member of the family. They have no need to ask for money because everything is provided for them.
Food and shelter are the two main things sought after when someone comes to us.
Besides offering a roof over their heads, and a bed for their nights, it is a known fact that our ministry is passionate about providing food for those who are homeless or hungry in the Albuquerque area.
We provide thousands of meals each month, feeding the hungry each day of the year — at the shelter or from our Lifeline of Hope mobile food truck around the city. It’s a vital ministry that can’t be overlooked, ignored, or forgotten. Food is necessary – Period.
But, did you also know that we are deeply concerned about feeding their soul?
It is a known fact that our inner being needs fed. You’ve heard the words “what goes in, comes out,” right? Well, we have a deep desire to fill the minds and hearts of those who enter our facility with the type of nutrition that will change their lives and last forever.
The following scripture says it best:
Whoever comes to Me will never go hungry,
and whoever believes in Me will never be thirsty.”
John 6:35 NIV
So, since our daily mission is to feed the hungry, we take it a step further and feed their soul as well. When we give food to them to eat, we like to take the opportunity to share a different type of “food” that will go with them for the rest of their lives. It’s an eternal form of nourishment
It’s not unusual for the staff to hear that some of those in our care have never owned or read a Bible. Filling the inner being with Scripture is the best way to transform a person.
We introduce them to God’s Word (the Bible), prayer (conversation with God), and a way to have a personal relationship with Him (salvation).
Scripture says Jesus is the Bread of Life, which means He is the sustenance we need now and forever. He is the “bridge” we need to be able to cross over to our eternal home – Heaven. That information has been new to many who come to us. Many have never heard of the possibility of having a personal relationship with God.
We have a powerful tool in the Christ in Power Program (CIPP) that we use at the shelter to teach and guide those who truly want to transform out of their homeless life into a life of freedom by learning how to surrender their lives, their will, to God.
For us, it all starts with a meal, and conversation.
Food. Nourishment. Life.
When we hand out food this Thanksgiving, we will be offering a full holiday meal of turkey and dressing, vegetables, dessert, and pie with coffee to those who would like a special meal to celebrate with…and we plan to visit with them about our program and how it can help them move forward.
We are happy to provide the food, and look forward to the opportunity to share with them a way to turn their lives around.
Our hearts go out to each person who is homeless or hungry.
If you or someone you know would like a Thanksgiving meal, or more information, please call our business office at 505-217-9586.
