Peters Porch

Recently the members of our church have embarked on a mission to offer clothing to those who might need it. We have collected, sorted and racked an incredible amount of items to offer our community for no cost. The men in our church began this endeavor last summer and to date we have serviced many needs by hosting 3 open give away dates.

Believe it or not, the local community here has brought in about 200 people each date to recieve not only clothing but on 2 occassions food as well. There are so many situations surrounding this great need that we are helping to meet. Some include the handicapped on strict budgets as well as young families hard pressed by this current economy. Other stories show us that none are exempt from losing a job. A few households are also stretched to meet basic needs as other bills arise or conditions change.

With this in mind, I am thoughtful of that God is no respector of persons. There is no distinction of rich or poor in uncertain times! We who are givers today may be the recievers tomorrow. And so we need to humble ourselves in the investment we make toward serving with the right heart motive that all who recieve are welcome as we would feel the truth of Christs love in the provision of our needs.

The greatest joy I have been experiencing during the times I volunteer to sort clothing is the fellowship with other workers in the mission. I have met new people, laughed with old friends and deepened my relationships with other parisheners.

So much can be accomplished through this kind of outreach, things that change hearts and lives. If you are not aquainted with some small act of partnering with the outside community to feed the hungry, visit the sick, clothe the naked or go to the prisons , you have not yet done anything for Christ our Lord! That is not to ever imply that He has not done anything for you! He does not look for any repayment. He simply has shown me that friendship with Him connects my heart to His concerns. I want to share all the ups and downs in my life deeply with my friends. Don't you?

Search your own heart and see where it may take you to. Six months ago none in this cause would have guessed we were being led to impact our neighbors or ourselves in such a dramatic way.

Jeremiah 29- I know the plans I have for your welfare and not for your calamity , says the Lord!