Free Community Dinner (Cena Gratis)
It was Saturday night and our church was a buzz. It wasn’t because we were having a church service, but instead we were feeding the community—a free dinner for anyone who wanted to attend with no strings attached.
The planning and preparation had been taking place for days. Flyers had been posted throughout the area. Volunteers had been lined up to assist with parking, greet the attendees, serve the food/beverages and even wash the dishes. The brisket had been cooking for 24 hours, the 80 pounds of potatoes had been peeled, sliced and pared for mashed potatoes, the brownies were baked, and the tables decorated.
People began arriving—some came directly from work and some from the bar; some brought their families or friends while others came alone; some came not knowing that they were entering a church and some came because it was a church; some were new to town and others had lived in the Valley their whole life; some spoke English, some didn’t. Isn’t that what a church should be--a place where all are welcomed without conditions and questions?
I learned a lot about members of my church; there are many who are willing to serve others who are less fortunate. People put aside their wants, needs and desires in order to make others feel warm and welcome. I have a new respect for the men, women and children that I worship with on Sunday mornings.
By the time we all left the church that night not only were our stomachs full but, I think our lives had been enriched too…not because there was a powerful sermon, but because Jesus had been present through the “servants” in our church loving on strangers and following the instructions of Jesus to feed the hungry.
Many of our guests said they would be back—maybe even for church service on Sunday. We hope that will happen, but even if it doesn’t they know where to find us when they want to know more about Jesus and will probably feel more comfortable when they return.
Matthew 25:35-36 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, 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.
Be sure to check back in the next few days to read a couple of heartwarming stories from the event.
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