As we navigate the long, dark winter, it’s important to remember that for our homeless friends, the darkness of this season can be even more acute. The lack of shelter, warmth, and basic necessities deepens feelings of isolation, despair, and hopelessness. The cycle of addiction often thrives in these conditions—darkness becomes a place of numbing, where pain is avoided rather than confronted. Additionally, the literal cold can mirror the spiritual coldness that many homeless individuals feel as they disconnect from society.

In contrast, it’s striking that God’s first act of creation was to speak light into existence: “Let there be light” (Genesis 1:3). His first creative act wasn’t just to bring physical light, but to dispel the chaos of a formless, dark world. This light represented God’s presence and order, a theme reiterated in the Gospel of John when Jesus declared Himself to be the “light of the world” (John 8:12). Like God’s first creative act, Jesus’ light seeks to dispel chaos and disorder (this time caused by the fall in Genesis 3).

God desires that all of us experience spiritual light rather than spiritual darkness. At the Rescue Mission, we strive to carry out that divine desire, especially during this season. We take deliberate steps in the dark winter months to help our homeless friends navigate both the literal and spiritual challenges they face.

Providing safe, warm shelter during the coldest months not only saves lives, but also creates a space for spiritual healing. Our programs combine one-on-one therapy, group discussions, nightly chapel services, work therapy, and Bible studies. We use proven principles to help individuals break free from the cycle of addiction. (Please read Dustin Reynold’s life story to learn how the New Life Program helped him overcome this cycle.)

As winter’s darkness continues, it’s important to remember that the Bible assures us that darkness cannot overcome the light. For our homeless friends struggling with addiction, the light of God’s love and the practical support of the Rescue Mission provide both warmth and hope this winter. As the light of Christ dispels spiritual darkness, our actions are a tangible reflection of that light, offering healing and restoration to those in need.

Thank you for supporting our ministry. Your prayers and support are “letting there be light,” dispelling the chaos and disorder in the lives of our homeless friends here in Utah.

God bless you,

Chris D. Croswhite

Executive Director