The Mustard Seed Project

 Box 18745, Asheville NC 28814

828-206-0495

www.newdirectionmustardseed@gmail.com

December 2020

Dear Friends,

It was one of those perfect December nights, several years back, on top of the mountain of New Direction Farm.  We had just finished an exquisite holiday meal specially prepared by students and staff. It would be our last time together until January’s return.  Donning coats and boots we headed down to the pond, snow crunching beneath our feet in the still, cold night.  Several carried lanterns to light our way. Upon arriving at water’s edge we separated arm’s length, encircling the pond.  Upon cue, lights were turned off. We stood in the pitch black for a period of time. The lighting of one candle cast a beam into the darkness. Then began a sequential lighting of a neighbor’s candle, who in turn did the same until each of us had a flame in hand. A magnificent circle of light reflected upon the water, creating a barrier against the dark night. It was the most splendid of settings for a reading from the book of Isaiah:

“The people walking in darkness have seen a great Light; on those living in the land of deep darkness a Light has dawned…….for to us a Child is born, to us a Son is given, and the government will be on His shoulders.  And He will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father,  Prince of Peace….”

When we think of you, who have invested in the lives of the Mustard Seed families, we find this image of raised candles to be most illustrative of the many of us walking through a dark valley with these families.  As is true of most, 2020 has been a difficult year of trial and testing.   We want to share with you testimonies from a few of the mothers with whom you have walked.

I am so thankful that God led my family to Mustard Seed!  They have truly jumped right in to walk beside us and are a great support. Through their help with our lawyer bills I have been able to fight for full custody to keep my kids in a safe and stable environment.  It has been amazing to have access to Christian counseling for my whole family!  I was worried about being able to provide financially for my kids after being a stay at home mom for 16 years.  With the financial help of Mustard Seed I was able to build a successful airbnb business that enables me to continue the same life with my kids, staying home with them and homeschooling them as I always have.  Having Bridget and David come alongside us in this journey has relieved much of my stress, not having to carry the load alone.  I appreciate the time and energy that the ministry has invested into the success of my family in all aspects, financially, emotionally, spiritually and relationally.  Thank you so much to the donors, who without them, this would not be possible!  My kids are impacted greatlythrough your support, seeing God’s faithfulness to provide for us. I am forever thankful.  ~Sheri (mother of three)

In light of Thanksgiving, I want to express my gratitude for all that Mustard Seed and their donors have done for me and my three children. Throughout this journey, the Mustard Seed Family has walked alongside us. With your support my children and I have been blessed to keep the place we call home. My vehicle has been in and out of the shop for two years. A good, safe, used vehicle is in process of being purchased through the Mustard Seed. Your support has aided in a dueling court battle over child custody and support. Most of all and the one I believe to be the most important: because of your decision to come alongside us, you gave us hope in a time that seemed hopeless. I thank God for the hearts you have, and I am forever grateful for you. May God bless  you.

                With love, A Single Mother of Three

                My home was in horrible physical condition…..actually to the point there were holes in the floors…….much like the lives of my children and mine due to repeated losses and trauma in our lives…God sent the Mustard Seed our way and through them has been restoring our lives and our home.  We realize it has been through the generosity of gracious donors.  We are truly grateful and feel we, now, have a new lease on life.  Thank you!    Single Mother of Two Girls   

These are just three of many with whom we have been called to, extensively, walk over this past year.  Our relationship with them will continue forward as they become, incrementally, stronger and more independent. 

We are Deeply Grateful To You

Merry Christmas

All of Us At Mustard Seed

“Carry your candle, run to the darkness; seek out the lonely, the tired and worn. Hold out your candle for all to see it. Take your candle and go light your world…… So carry your candle, run to the darkness.  Seek out the hopeless, deceived and poor.  Hold out your candle for all to see it.  Take your candle, and go light your world.”  (Go Light Your World: Chris Rice)