Feeding the soul through feeding the hungry
Today’s post is from Chuck Scoggins, Communications director at relevant church in Lake Wylie, sc
There is a strong connection between hunger and chronic diseases. When there is an absence of nutrition, people suffer and die. Making sure people have access to nutritious and clean food should be a priority for all of us, as it is for Servants With a Heart. That’s why it was a privilege for us as the people of Relevant Church to cancel our worship services and pack meals as part of our Live to Give event back in December 2022.
After all, Scripture tells us in Proverbs, James, and Romans — among other places — to feed those who are hungry. We are even commanded in the Bible to go so far as to provide provision for our enemies.
Feeding people is a virtuous endeavor and an end in itself. Hunger is bad.
However, it’s also important for us to remember there is a type of hunger that cures our ailments; a thirst to cure our spiritual disease. In fact, we are instructed to seek it out:
Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied. (Matthew 5:6; emphasis added). The satiation of our souls is found in craving. The food we need most is found in a person. Jesus says, “I am the bread of life; whoever comes to me shall not hunger, and whoever believes in me shall never thirst.” (John 6:35)
The cure for a famished spiritual life is found in loving Christ. But how does that love demonstrated? We must look back to the beginning. Jesus tells us: “Feed my sheep” (John 12:17).
The work of Servants With a Heart is crucially important for the practical need of human life and sustenance. Their important work will prevent disease and death. The miracle of their work, though, is that as we support them in their mission, we fill the bellies of our own souls with living water. Oh what a blessing to taste and see the goodness of our Lord in serving his children.
Thank you, Servants With a Heart, for providing the opportunity to feast at the table of service.
