Regaining Control of Life with Master's Touch

Regaining Control of Life with Master’s Touch

March 4, 2021

Rachel Westman

What if life is out of control?

What do you do when you’re struggling with addiction? Homelessness? Depression?

“I was living on my terms and not thinking of others.” 

This is what Mike said when he shared his story of recovery.  He is an example of healing at Master’s Touch, a Bible-based long-term, residential recovery program that helps men overcome brokenness, depression, and addiction and help them restart their life. You can find his full story here. He thought he lost everything when alcohol controlled his life before he got checked into Master’s Touch.

Master’s Touch is a ministry with Wayside Cross located in Aurora and helps people regain control of their life through the hope of Christ. It is a 6-month long program that is focused on Christ’s redemption.  They have helped men rebuild their lives when all hope was lost.  They help reconnect families that have been estranged due to addiction, depression, or homelessness.  They help men reach education goals and gain valuable work experience.  Many of these men have never had the level of support that Master’s Touch offers.  Many have never heard the gospel of Jesus and heard that there is HOPE despite their situations.

There are 59 people currently going through the recovery process. They have had up to 80 men at a time!

“I never thought I could move past the pain and guilt. I didn’t believe I was worthy of it. But God’s grace is sufficient.”

I talked with the Director of Master’s Touch, Jon Beall, recently and asked him how he’s seen God work lately. In February, Master’s Touch had a graduation ceremony for those who have completed their program and are on their journey of recovery!

One graduate said, “And for those in the audience who doubt how powerful God is, or whether or not they have the strength to face and conquer their demons, there is a not-so-gentle reminder that He is, and you can too!”

The most memorable part for Jon was seeing men who completed the earliest seasons of the program. None of them were looking to leave, but continue with the later stages of the program! How encouraging! These graduates completed the first 7 months and will continue.  I asked Jon what their future after graduation from this program looks like. The next stages can either involve working at Master’s Touch as a Resident Assistant or living there and working an outside job. Others leave Master’s Touch entirely.

The goal is always to bring restoration to these men and then transition them into society as fully functioning and contributing citizens!

Fortunately, they have had a wonderful and loyal volunteer base!  But like most of our partners, people have been more reluctant to serve.  Volunteers have been gradually coming back.

If you are interested in volunteering with Master’s Touch, you can call Jon directly at 630-723-3422.

Many stories of hope and recovery will inspire you here.  Master’s Touch is doing amazing work! Their relationship between Elgin Wayside and Aurora Wayside is stronger than ever and they are helping many people through their shelter and recovery program.