Several people from church began...
Illustration
Several people from church began serving meals to people in the community. They
enjoyed cooking for other people. At first there were some people in church who did not
understand what they were trying to accomplish. Feeding people who were not part of
their church seemed like a large, additional expense. The chair of the finance committee
frankly told them that the church could not support such an endeavor on any regular
basis. Another person suggested that they prepare meals for the members of the church.
Someone else added that they should charge the people to help offset the cost. On and on
the debate went.
The pastor spoke passionately that the church should do all it can to get people from the surrounding neighborhoods inside of the church. Providing a meal is a good way to attract young families.
Those involved found a sense of purpose serving others. Soon the meals became more creative. People in the church saw their enthusiasm and offered to help. The fellowship hall was painted; round tables were purchased. Tablecloths and candles were soon added. When people walked into the room, they felt as though they were entering a restaurant. At first, people expressed disbelief that a church would offer them a free meal. Others were grateful for the opportunity to sit down and eat together. After a year and a half over 200 people are fed on Wednesday nights at the church. And some have begun attending worship as a result.
When we are attuned with Jesus we stay the course even when we hit bumps along the way.
The pastor spoke passionately that the church should do all it can to get people from the surrounding neighborhoods inside of the church. Providing a meal is a good way to attract young families.
Those involved found a sense of purpose serving others. Soon the meals became more creative. People in the church saw their enthusiasm and offered to help. The fellowship hall was painted; round tables were purchased. Tablecloths and candles were soon added. When people walked into the room, they felt as though they were entering a restaurant. At first, people expressed disbelief that a church would offer them a free meal. Others were grateful for the opportunity to sit down and eat together. After a year and a half over 200 people are fed on Wednesday nights at the church. And some have begun attending worship as a result.
When we are attuned with Jesus we stay the course even when we hit bumps along the way.
