Your Help Needed with “Blessing Bags”
“The opposite of loving your neighbor isn’t hating them,
it’s being indifferent to them.”
– Jim Wallis
Seeing and acknowledging is one of the most impactful actions we can take when we encounter someone who is homeless, struggling, or alone. Most of the time they are ignored, or even avoided. Slowing down and recognizing the humanity of our neighbors is, on its own, a radical gesture. And, for those of us who like to do something more, Blessing Bags are one way to take the next step.
A hello and a ‘Blessing Bag’ is a tangible way to love your homeless neighbor. Blessing Bags are bags that contain necessities, toiletries, food, and some extras that you can keep with you to hand out when you come across an individual grappling with poverty. These kits can help meet their immediate needs, as well as showing that they are seen and they are worthy.
For the month of November, Maranatha will be collecting items to place in these bags .. and we invite you to join with us in the effort! This has three main purposes:
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To create bags that will address the immediate needs of those who are homeless, by having bags full of items that have been requested by both those who are homeless and their caregivers.
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In the midst of our fellowship time together, to remind us all that poverty and homelessness are Church issues; it is an opportunity to reflect on our relationships with those who, like our Lord during his ministry, are homeless.
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And assembling the bags can be an excellent way to involve kids and demonstrate generosity.
During announcements we will show some of the items that are listed on the printout we are providing. My family and I have chosen different items to concentrate on for collection. If you cannot shop for any of these items, or would simply like to contribute please see me at any time and we can discuss.
For the month of November, Maranatha will be collecting items to place in these bags .. and we invite you to join with us in the effort. Would you please consider helping out in this ministry of compassion for our friends in need?
Pastor George
