It was December 19. Police cars surrounded Jestin’s dad’s house, red lights flashing against the gray of the clouds. Pulling aside the police tape, he walked into the house and was shocked to learn that his dad, a well-known member of the community, had been killed by an intruder the night before.

A few days later, Jestin stood over his dad’s grave in the deep cold, his heart numb with pain.

“I couldn’t leave him,” Jestin remembers. “We were so close. He was going to put me through school and to help me fulfill my dreams.”

Now how would Jestin get through each day?

“I was at the end of my rope,” he remembers. “Before I came to the Mission, I was sleeping under a bridge. My dreams were put on hold. I got in a funk. I thought I would just go somewhere and die.”

He spent the next few months homeless, falling into a deep depression and using drugs as a crutch just to get by. More than once, he considered ending his life.                

Jestin knew the Mission might be his only way out. He joined the Discipleship program, which is providing work therapy, biblical training, opportunities to serve, and a brotherhood of trusting friends who are giving him a whole new outlook on life.

Thanks to you, this Christmas he has new hope for the future and no longer has to be stuck in pain and regret..

“Since being at the Mission, I’ve changed so much. My regret has turned to salvation. God has done a lot in my life.”

This Christmas, Jestin has the peace that surpasses understanding. “I’ve found the joy of the Lord,” he says. “I’m thankful to be this newer man than I am.”

Have Breakfast with Jestin

Join us for the next Breakfast with a Student event. Jestin will be on hand to share the rest of his story and how you’re gifts have changed his life. We’ll be serving breakfast and providing tours of the Men’s Campus so you can see the impact you’re having in person. Bring a friend. Hope to see you there!

Event Details

Saturday, January 25, 9-10:30 a.m. Men’s Campus, Union Gospel Mission Twin Cities, 435 University Ave. E., St. Paul. Or call 651.789.7564.

RSVP Here or call us at 651.789.7564. See you there!