End of 2024 thoughts

I have struggled to find the words to close out 2024. It ended in several challenging ways, including the death of a cousin, significant plumbing work, a diagnosis of plantar fasciitis, and an ending of family traditions for over 45 years. However, we made some new traditions and memories despite losing the family matriarch, my grandma, in March. The pictures are from each month and combine ministry and being with loved ones. These are some of my favorites for the year. 

Despite navigating grief, loneliness, and the challenges that have continued to come, there were still many highlights for the year. Celebrate with me some of the things that happened in 2024:

• Unstuck: a Teen's Guide to Uncertain Times was published. It was a joy to be a part of this project, and I look forward to hearing how the Lord uses it in 2025.
• The Cebuano translation of the Anchored in Hope program in the Philippines was launched in March.
• Continued service with Global Outreach, particularly working with the teens during care retreats and missionary orientations.
• The partnership with Compassion Internation on developing a new youth program called Rise Up: Building Strength and Resilience Together, recording training videos, writing content for the program, and preparing to pilot in 2025.
• I had the opportunity to speak at 2 of my partnering churches.
• The regional community of practice event occurred in Bogota, Colombia.
• My mom continues to be cancer-free but continues to be monitored closely.

Thank you for your love, compassion, and support in 2024. Please continue to remember my family in your prayers as the grief is heavy still. May the Lord grant you His peace in 2025. 
With love,
Misty

---

John 14:27 (NLT)
“I am leaving you with a gift—peace of mind and heart.
And the peace I give is a gift the world cannot give.
So don’t be troubled or afraid."

In this passage, Jesus offers encouragement as he knows the disciples will face increasing challenges and difficulties. And through it all, He promises His peace during those trials. This peace is not the absence of trouble but exists despite trouble. Why? Because of the presence of Jesus. He is where hope has been found in the darkness of 2024. May He bring you His peace in 2025 as we continue to focus on Him and not the storms around us.

Partner Now

Would you prayerfully consider becoming a partner of Misty Bodkins in 2025? There are 2 ways you may donate to Misty at Ministry Care. You can make checks payable to “Ministry Care” and send them to:
 
Ministry Care
14934 Pacer Ct.
Carmel, IN 46032
 
Or you can also make an online donation, using Givelify, on our website at www.ministrycareinternational.org
 
Ministry Care is a 501c3 therefore your donation will be tax-deductible.
 
If you have any questions feel free to email us at [email protected]