Unexpected New Family Members
“They are truly part of our family now.”
Glenda and Jeff Varnell light up every time they speak of Ricardo, Rosebely, and Isabella—precious “new family members” they have gained over the past year through Joshua Station. “This [Blanco-Rivero] family is very loving. They bless us more than we could ever do for them. They welcome us with the warmest hugs and biggest smiles. We pray for each other and encourage each other.”
Jeff and Glenda were introduced to Mile High Ministries through Wellspring Church, where a number of our generous financial partners and active volunteers attend. Always with a heart for immigrants and displaced families, the Varnells perked up upon hearing that Joshua Station had welcomed five asylum-seeking families who walked to the USA from South America.
Knowing the horrific challenges these families survived on their journey, Glenda and Jeff began delivering groceries and helping financially. While applying for work permits and asylum approval, our hardworking residents need temporary, critical support. But who could have predicted the lifetime bonds?
The whole Blanco-Rivero gang is often over at the Varnells’ place. A highlight of the year was Isabella’s fifth birthday. Balloons everywhere, both in Isabella’s Joshua Station room and over at Jeff and Glenda’s for the party. Smiles for miles.
“They never let us leave without an ‘abrazo de familia,’ a family hug,” says Glenda. “We’re just grateful. All this is the Lord’s work, and orchestrated by him. The Joshua Station staff is so loving, and the whole resident community is coming together with these new families. It’s everything Jeff and I pray for.”
