The Abundant Life

John 10:10 “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly.”

When a man calls us looking for help, he’s often at the lowest place of his life. Many are homeless. Some have lost their marriages. Others haven’t spoken to their children in years. Most feel like they’ve lost everything because of addiction. They come in carrying the crushing weight of shame, depression, and regret. The enemy truly has stolen, killed, and destroyed so much in their lives.

But then—they meet Jesus.

And for the first time in a long time, these men begin to experience life again. Real life. Our 32-week program is intentionally structured, with hours of daily classes designed to help them let God direct this new life they’ve been given.

One of the most powerful tools I’ve found in recovery is showing these men that life can be full—abundant—without drugs or alcohol. Personally, I didn’t know that was possible. Before Jesus, everything fun in my life revolved around substances. So now, I make it a point to take these men on activities that remind them: the abundant life Jesus promises doesn’t just start in eternity—it starts now.

To kick off summer, we took a field trip to Rock Springs. While the men laughed and splashed around in the water like little kids, I fired up the grill and cooked a feast. Watching men who came into the Christian Care Center burdened and broken now full of joy in the springs was a living picture of the Gospel—Jesus making all things new.

But believe it or not, my favorite part isn’t the food—it’s the drive back. That’s when I get to hear what God revealed to them that day. I hear joy. I hear gratitude. I hear stories about how they shared the love of Jesus with strangers at the springs. And about twenty minutes into the drive, I hear my favorite sound of all—silence—as they fall asleep, worn out from a day full of fun and freedom.

Some people ask, “Why take these guys on trips when they’re supposed to be in a recovery program?” And my answer is simple: these moments are the program. This is what makes it life-changing. Because Jesus didn’t just come to fill churches or Bible studies—He came to fill our lives.

If you’d like to be a part of this life-changing ministry—by volunteering, becoming a prayer partner, or giving financially—please reach out at Jamie@christiancarecenter.org

You can help someone discover the abundant life they never thought was possible.