Joseph and I both share a family history of addiction. Though God protected us from choosing that path, we saw many of those closest to us struggle throughout their lives battling a substance, living life in and out of prison, and some who have even lost their lives. We watched as the enemy robbed them of their joy, their lives, and negatively impacted the lives of those around them. Because of this very real part of our childhood, we have a heart for those who experience addiction as a daily struggle. Like us, many people think of Sarasota as paradise. For many, however it is more like a nightmare and this is what we have found as the number of deaths increases due to the opioid epidemic and so many have been effected. Joseph has been attending local Narcotics Anonymous (NA) meetings for 15 years and is part of what they call a "Home Group" in which he has developed several close relationships within the addiction community.

 

Through these years, he has had many opportunities to share Christ and be an example of God's love. Many people struggling with addiction look to NA as the final solution to their addiction. Unfortunately, the program falls short and does not offer them ultimate answers to their sin and addiction which can only be found in a relationship with our Lord Jesus Christ. Joseph's hope is to continue to be able to bring the Good News to anyone who is hungry and to disciple them into full maturity through relational, missional discipleship.