"Faith means being sure of the things we hope for and knowing that something is real even if we do not see it." Hebrews 11:1

Dear Friends,

​A month ago, Kevin and I had the honor of officiating the wedding of Kemp and his fiancée Gena’s wedding.  I met Kemp over 40 years ago when his mother (my High School PE teacher and coach) asked me if I wanted to babysit Kemp and his younger brother.  To be honest with you, there were times I wondered if I was hired to entertain them and keep them somewhat safe. I do think through the years these boys became brothers to me.

To this day, I believe that Pam was trying to get me through my “knuckle-headed” years and she involved her family in this process. She assisted to direct, encourage, love and support me during some difficult years in my life.  I have often asked “Why?”  “Probably, because she saw something in me that I didn’t.” Recently I read this passage:

        Faith is trusting what the eye can’t see.
        Eyes see the prowling lion.  Faith sees Daniel’s angel.
        Eyes see storms.  Faith sees Noah’s rainbow.
        Eyes see giants.  Faith sees Canaan.
        Your eyes see your faults.  Your faith sees your Savior.
        Your eyes see your guilt.  Your faith sees his blood.
        
Your eyes look in the mirror and see a sinner, a failure,
a promise-breaker.  But by faith you look in the mirror and
see a robed prodigal bearing the ring of grace on your finger
and the kiss of your Father on your face.*

I believe this is the foundational reason for our staff being involved of the lives of children, youth and families – someone saw us for what we could be rather then who we were.  Jesus was that first person.

Thank you for your continued to prayer, encouragement and financial support of the ministry of City Impact.

Blessings!
Betty Alvarez Ham
President


*Max Lucado, When God Whispers Your Name