A Summertime Challenge

Most of us freely support our local food banks at Thanksgiving time, and via a few canned food drives at our children's schools, right?

But, people need food all year 'round.

And, in today's economy, food banks are stretched to the limit. They often find themselves with nearly bare shelves, due to demand exceeding supply.

A challenge ... as you are making lists of fun things to do with your children this summer, please add one more thing:

* Provide service to a food bank

This can look like a donation of canned and dry goods (we usually think of canned foods, but they also take boxes and bags of cereal, canned meats, baby food and baby supplies such as diapers, and even pet food, too!). Or, you could call and ask if they need help organizing their supplies.

There is a lot of nasty talk these days on the political side about "Socialism" and "keeping my money." Have we all forgotten what The Great Teacher, Jesus Christ, said in Matthew 25:35-40 (NIV):

35 For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, 36 I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.'
37 "Then the righteous will answer him, 'Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? 38 When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? 39 When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?'
40 "The King will reply, 'Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.'
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And, while you are gathering those items for the food bank, please consider adding a little prayer of thanks to God for the job that allows you to share. Sharing is good and kind. It is the right thing to do. It is not Socialism. It is being part of your community and providing love to your fellow human beings. I know you have it in you! :-)

Make a deposit in the food banks today. You never know when it might be YOU who needs to make a withdrawal.

Thank you.
-Holly