In the 1830s, long before he became the 16th President of the United States, Abraham Lincoln faced a period of profound personal and financial hardship. After a failed business venture, he was left with a significant debt—so much that it took nearly 17 years for him to repay his creditors. At the same time, Lincoln suffered from what he called "the hypo," or severe bouts of depression.

During this low point in his life, Lincoln leaned heavily on the support of close friends like Joshua Speed, who not only offered emotional encouragement but also provided him with a place to stay when he was struggling. Lincoln later credited these friendships as key to his survival and eventual rise to greatness.

This story reminds us that even someone as iconic as Abraham Lincoln needed assistance when he was "down and out." It highlights the power of humility and the importance of leaning on others during tough times.

I share this story because I find myself at a similar low point. I am no Abraham Lincoln, but many of you know me. You know my ministry and my work over the years. I served as the executive director of the Christian Action League of North Carolina for 25 years and was a registered lobbyist in the halls of the North Carolina General Assembly. My editorials have appeared in major publications such as the Raleigh News and Observer, the Charlotte Observer, the Winston-Salem Journal, and the Asheville Citizen-Times. My writings have also been featured on platforms like the Christian Post and Ambassador Alan Keyes’ website, RenewAmerica.com. National outlets such as The New York Times and USA Today have shared my insights from a Christian worldview.

Additionally, I have preached in churches and spoken at events throughout North Carolina’s 100 counties. Many of you reading this share the same values I have faithfully and sacrificially represented as a former pastor and Christian activist.

Now, I must humbly share my need and ask for your help. Earlier this year, the Board of the Christian Action League decided to dissolve the 80-year-old ministry. The League had operated in arrears for too long, and the decision, though painful, was deemed necessary. At the time of the dissolution, the League still owed me over $33,000 in back pay, but unfortunately there were no funds to pay me.

Today, my situation is dire. The League is gone. I am unemployed and have had nearly no income for the past three months, and I have no back pay to fall back on. My personal life has also unraveled in ways I am uncomfortable sharing publicly. However, I assure you there is no hidden sin or gross moral failure behind these circumstances.

I am in desperate need—personally and financially—and I earnestly seek your prayers and support. For those who believe in the importance of bringing the Gospel of Christ and the teachings of Scripture to bear on the political process, I ask you to prayerfully consider my plight. I have devoted two and a half decades to serving you and the evangelical community in North Carolina. Would you consider serving me now by sending a gift of financial assistance?

There are prospects for future employment, but these opportunities take time to materialize. Until then, I must lean on my friends and readers for help as I navigate this difficult season.

If you can help, please send your gift to:

Dr. Mark H. Creech
311 Hines Street
Snow Hill, North Carolina 28580

Again, it is most uncomfortable to make this request on my own behalf, but I have no choice and time is of the essence, as I am sure you can understand.

No gift is too small, and every expression of support would be deeply appreciated. Most of all, I ask for your prayers as I earnestly seek the Lord’s provision and guidance during this time.

Thank you for your love, prayers, and consideration.