10-08-25

ECCLESIOLOGICAL ETCHINGS
October 8, 2025
Guest Writer: Kay Smith
In Matthew 25:35-40, we read:
I was hungry and you gave me food to eat. I was thirsty and you gave me a drink. I was a stranger and you welcomed me.  I was naked and you gave me clothes to wear. I was sick and you took care of me. I was in prison and you visited me.’  “Then those who are righteous will reply to him, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you a drink? When did we see you as a stranger and welcome you, or naked and give you clothes to wear? When did we see you sick or in prison and visit you?’ “Then the king will reply to them, ‘I assure you that when you have done it for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you have done it for me.’

In a world where many people struggle with basic needs, it is important to consider our role in helping others. How do we feed and give drinks to strangers? How do we clothe those who have no clothes? 

One way we can put these words into action is by partnering with local organizations dedicated to serving our neighbors. By volunteering our time or offering resources, we can tangibly demonstrate love and compassion to those facing hardship. Whether it’s preparing meals for families, collecting clothing, or simply offering a listening ear, every act of kindness demonstrates God’s love.

As Service/Outreach chairperson on our Church Board, I see many ways we can provide service.  Our church works with many organizations and non-profit agencies, for example:

• Northwest Assistance Ministries (NAM)
• Hope Center
• Boys and Girls Country
• Sleep in Heavenly Peace
• ARC Prison Ministry

Each of these organizations plays a unique role in addressing different needs within our community. For instance, NAM provides food, emergency assistance, and support services to individuals and families in crisis. Hope Center offers resources and encouragement to those facing homelessness, while Boys and Girls Country nurtures children and youth in a safe, family-like environment. Sleep in Heavenly Peace ensures that children do not have to sleep on the floor by building and delivering beds to families in need. ARC Prison Ministry brings hope and support to individuals impacted by incarceration, helping them find new purpose and reintegrate into society.

I fully believe Jesus when he said, “The kingdom of God is within you”. We could sit in our pews week after week and hide our light under a bushel.  Or we could go out into our community and shine our light and spread the Kingdom of God to hurting and broken people.

If you feel moved to volunteer, please call the church office and leave a message for me.  I would be so happy to discuss what beckons you to donate your time.

In Isaiah 58:10, we read:

“And if you spend yourselves in behalf of the hungry and satisfy the needs of the oppressed, then your light will rise in the darkness, and your night will become like the noonday.” – Isaiah 58:10