Bread of Life/Earl's Story

The contrast between the “old Earl” who walked into Bethel Mission two years ago and the “new Earl” preparing for a Bible study today is so radical, he says, “I don’t feel like Earl anymore!”

The old Earl was interested in making himself happy and getting high. “I didn’t feel good about myself or other people. I could put on a show and seem interested, but in the back of my head, I’d be wondering, ‘When can I go get high?’”

Over the years, drug and alcohol abuse had ruined Earl’s marriage and damaged his relationship with his daughter, Jessica. The best way to cover up his sadness and shame was to drink and use drugs. The devastating cycle perpetuated itself daily.

But since coming to Hope Ministries, Earl says he’s become a whole different person! “I’ve learned it’s not about me,” he says. “It’s not God on my terms. He has commandments, rules, stipulations and there are consequences for breaking them.”

Earl celebrated a full year of sobriety in November — and he attributes this and other successes to the Bread of Life, Jesus Christ. “I want to be obedient to Him whatever it takes,” he says. “I strive daily to do things out of love for Him, rather than out of fear and selfishness.”

Earl’s newfound humility is evident in all he does. “I’m very thankful for the teachers at Hope Ministries. And for the men! Sometimes the grubbiest, most unlikely man will say something to me and I’ll realize God is talking to me through him.”

Today, Earl lives at Buchanan Houses, Hope Ministries’ transitional homes. Recently, he shared his story with a women’s group. “Two years ago, if anyone had asked me to talk in front of a group, it would have been sheer terror!” he jokes. “Now I know God is with me and I’m His mouthpiece. Each day is brand new. The difference between the old Earl and the new Earl is I surrender my life to Him every morning.”