Our Mission Family mourns the loss of one of our own while celebrating a life that was completely transformed by Jesus.

Paul Lewis first came through the doors of the Shreveport-Bossier Rescue Mission as an atheist. But God wasn’t finished writing his story.

During his time at the Mission, Paul surrendered his life to Jesus Christ, graduated from our New Beginnings Program and Ministry Intern Program, and eventually became our Kitchen Manager.

Paul served faithfully for years, using his story to pour into the lives of others. Whether he was preparing meals, training students in the kitchen, encouraging a guest, or simply doing the everyday work that needed to be done, Paul understood that his work was ministry.

Jesus said in Luke 9:62,  “No one who puts a hand to the plow and looks back is fit for service in the kingdom of God.” Paul kept his hand on the plow.

He never lost sight of the vision: changing our cities one life at a time through the healing and transformational power of Jesus Christ. He lived that vision because he had experienced that transformation.

Our hearts are heavy because we deeply miss our friend, brother, coworker, and fellow servant. But we grieve with hope.

Paul came to the Mission not believing in God but left this earth knowing Jesus as his Savior. And, we have the comfort and assurance of knowing that Paul is celebrating in the presence of Jesus for all of eternity.

Well done, Paul. You kept your hand on the plow. You finished your race. You kept the faith. Until we see you again.