10/16/2026
I read a statistic from the CDC that honestly took my breath away when I read it and has been a driving force for my passion for Lifewise since.
Su***de is the second leading cause of death among children ages 10–14.
These are children. Some of them are the same ages as the students we're picking up for LifeWise every week.
I don't know about you, but I don't want A SINGLE child growing up believing their life doesn't matter or that there's no hope for them.
We want children to know that they were created by God, that their lives have purpose, and that there is a God who cares for them.
And more than anything, we want them to know Jesus.
Because the greatest hope we can share with anyone is the Gospel. Even though we've all sinned and fallen short of God's glory, God loved us enough to send His Son to die for our sins. Jesus rose from the dead, and through repentance and faith in Him, we can be forgiven and have eternal life with God.
That's the hope we want the children of Newark to hear. ❤️
And I also want to say this: If you're reading this and you're struggling, please tell someone. You don't have to figure everything out on your own. Having faith doesn't mean you won't struggle with depression, anxiety, or painful circumstances. There is help available, and it's okay to need it.
You can call **211** to find local resources and support, or call or text **988** if you're experiencing suicidal thoughts or emotional distress.
And please know this:
**Your life matters. You are valuable. You are loved and cared for by the very God who created the universe. He knows you by name. He sees you, He hears you, and you can call on Him at any time.**
You are never beyond His reach. ❤️
Source: CDC, 2024 U.S. mortality data.