Nashville Rescue Mission

Let not the downtrodden turn back in shame; let the poor and needy praise your name.

Psalm 74:21

While in Tennessee, I had the opportunity to visit and photograph the place and people of the Nashville Rescue Mission. I thoroughly enjoyed it. The ministry that this group of people are doing is really remarkable. Through education, encouragement and focus on the word and joy of God, they help to give opportunity and hope to so many in need. 

The mission is split into two parts. The first half of their ministry is a more common and well known kind of care for the homeless. A place to give shelter, food and simpler care to people living on the streets of Nashville. The second part is what they call "The Program." In this group you'd find a wide range of people, from some who have recently lost their jobs to many who are coming straight off the streets and actively pursuing new and fruitful lives.  They commit to a 6 month program where all their needs are cared for. They live in dorm like rooms and are fed and cared for both physically and spiritually. During this time they take classes which provide them with a GED. The time concludes with a graduation as well as help and counsel for employment and the future. This program really helps get people back on their feet. Lives once headed toward danger and pain are turned around with renewed hope for this life and for many, the hope of Heaven and a Savior. As I was able to talk with many of those who were looking toward a new and bright future there was a tangible joy on their faces. People who have, quite possibly never felt true love in their lives, were being shown the powerful love of Christ. 

 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our affliction, so that we may be able to comfort those who are in any affliction, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God.

2 Corinthians 1:3-4

I've gained a renewed appreciation and gratefulness for people who have devoted and poured their lives into this kind of challenging ministry. I have remembered them in my prayers many times since and I hope that as you're hearing about and seeing photos of people like Jessica above, you're encouraged to pray for them as well.

Here are a few of my pictures from the day.

five years old. :)

Just one of the few walls of graduates from the program. So many lives are represented there!

 Visiting the Rescue Mission was a wonderful experience that led me to meet many people whose lives clearly portray the beautiful grace I treasure above all else. I'm thankful for the hours spent here and the encouragement that it brought me!