b'Alison lives in West Texas with her husband, two sons, and two daughters. Formerly, she lived in Colorado and edited publications for Citygate Network and for the Christian Camp and Conference Association. Alison holds a bachelor of science degree in journalism. She can be reached at alisonjoyphillips@hotmail.com.shopping there. He was leery ofextravagance at great cost to himself. receiving charity, but when she toldHe gives up his comfort for suffering; him they would pay for the items,he shares with us his very life, his he said, OK, we can do that. death and his resurrection. The gift They were so thrilled with theof salvation is costly beyond meas-experience that she began volunteer- ure. But it costs us nothing. Its free The creativity ing every year. Her children grew upto us in Christ.and hard work ofvolunteering at the store, and theThe creativity and hard work of youngest still helps! Now, that mothermissions produce a world of differ-missions produce ais on staff with [City Gospel Mission]enceat Christmas and beyond.and keeps the communication withOne of our dear Muslim world of difference our partner churches on track. residents was selecting toys for his at Christmas andWhosoever Gospel Mission stafffirstborn son, Jihad, Heather said. members use their holiday festivitiesThe irony wasnt lost on my friend. beyond.to point to eternal truths. AmidstWe laughed together about the scene. cookies, coffee, and ChristmasHere he was, getting free toys from music, the staff and residents discussfollowers of Jesus, celebrating the the value of the Toy Giveaway gifts,birth of the Prince of Peace, for his agreeing that the items were qualityson who was named after the very toys that cost them nothing. concept of war.Its a tiny glimpse of the gospel,Our friend isnt a Muslim any-Heather said. God blesses us withmore. Hes being drawn to Jesus. \x03 Photo courtesy of Whosoever Gospel Mission32 WWW.CITYGATENETWORK.ORG NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2022'