10/15/25, 5:00 PM

“You then, my child, be strengthened by the grace that is in Christ Jesus… No soldier gets entangled in civilian pursuits, since his aim is to please the one who enlisted him.”
– 2 Timothy 2:1, 4

In 2 Timothy chapter 2, Paul speaks to his young disciple with the voice of both a mentor and a fellow laborer. He reminds Timothy that ministry is not just about passion, it’s about endurance, faithfulness, and grace. At CareNetworkCR, we live in that same tension daily. The calls coming into our Care Connection Center, the customer needs to be seen at the ESL Schools, and Hidden Gems. Families walking through complex challenges remind us that this work takes more than good intentions.

It takes spiritual strength that comes from being enlisted by Jesus and strengthened by Jesus. Paul compares the work of faith to that of a soldier, athlete, and farmer. We see the soldier is able to stay focused, undistracted from the mission. The athlete trains with discipline and perseverance. The farmer works patiently, trusting that God brings the harvest in due time.

In our ministry, these images and provision come to life. Volunteers and staff are able to serve with focus amid the noise of life. Churches and partners train together in compassion and wisdom, sowing seeds of dignity and hope. And like the farmer, we wait—trusting that every call answered, every family encouraged, and every prayer lifted is planting something eternal. Paul’s reminder in verse one rings true for all of us: “Be strengthened by the grace that is in Christ Jesus.” Grace is our fuel. It’s what allows us to keep showing up for neighbors, to keep believing in transformation, and to keep doing the quiet, faithful work of care.

As we continue serving our city, may we hold fast to this call, to endure, to teach, and to receive grace — knowing the harvest is coming, and it belongs to the Lord.