Then the righteous will answer him, ‘Lord, when was it that we saw you hungry and gave you food, or thirsty and gave you something to drink? And when was it that we saw you a stranger and welcomed you, or naked and gave you clothing? And when was it that we saw you sick or in prison and visited you?’ And the king will answer them, ‘Truly I tell you, just as you did it to one of the least of these who are members of my family, you did it to me.’

Matthew 25:37-40

Last November, the pastoral staff focused our daily devotions on the missional efforts of the church. We explored the variety of ways that the church and its members answer God’s call to love our neighbors. This included a myriad of efforts, some that occur on the church property and others that take place across the globe. Some were ministries carried out by the church like the Soup Kitchen and others were missions that we partner with to help our local community and beyond. In my short time here, I have been blown away by this church’s commitment to loving and serving our neighbors. This community of faith is filled with compassionate Christians dedicated to caring for all of God’s children.

For this resolution, I invite you to consider joining together with one of our partner ministries. Here are just of few:

• Anchor House
• Angels Care Center
• Beth El Farmworker Ministry
• Cedarkirk Camp and Conference Center
• Family Emergency Services
• Girls, Inc.
• Habitat for Humanity
• The Haley Center
• Meals on Wheels
• The Mission
• Polk Training Center
• Project Love

Partnership can take many forms. It can be to volunteer time with the mission entity. Financial gifts and materials donations can also help. Prayer is a critical way to lift up the work and impact of a ministry for God’s blessing. Reach out to one of the partners above or another one that is special to you and ask how you can help. Together, we can answer God’s call to love our neighbor and make our community and world a more just and loving place.

Prayer

Holy God, thank You for the many blessing You shower upon us on a daily basis. Help us to be grateful for Your goodness and mercy. Empower us to love our neighbors and to share Your love. We ask this in Your name, Amen.