Strong joy. That’s the label I assign to Deb Ellinger, one of our StartNew ministry leaders.
A former police officer, Deb launched Elli’s House in 2016. A ministry especially for women in forced prostitution in Detroit.
Strong flows from her former police officer side. No-nonsense. Tough.
The Jesus side shouts joy. Bubbles up and pours over, creating this wonderfully magnetic combination.
Her smile stretches beyond her face and leaps into the hearts of those nearby. Tears well up. Souls ask what just happened.
All an offspring of unconditional love. As she has been loved by Jesus, so she loves.
No questions asked before giving it. No standards required to keep receiving it.
Even the pimps and predators receive love instead of hatred. “Everyone in that system is so broken. So much brokenness.”
That was her comment during yesterday’s podcast recording session.
More than hearing what God has been doing in her life – and it’s been incredible…
More than hearing of Jesus’ provision for her ministry – and it’s been supernatural…
More than the incredible stories of lives changed – and there have been many…
Most enjoyable about our zoom time was simply being with Deb. Her presence fills the soul like a wind off the lake fills the sail of a catamaran and carts it to coves best seen from the water.
It’s easy to see why people believe in her work. It’s easy to see why previously hurt people trust her.
She’s all about Jesus. At the end of the day, Jesus is all we really have.