Meals bring you close.
You see people in ordinary life as they are.
Meal trains must be one of the best digital creations of the 21st century. With just a few clicks, meals can be organized for a family or friend in a season of need. Although I enjoy hosting, I have to admit that I am easily intimidated about dropping off dinner for someone else. The idea of preparing something that can safely be taken to another house makes me slightly anxious. So the day I realized that a Costco chicken, side dish, bagged salad, rolls, and store-bought cookies were acceptable meal train fare was indeed a good day.
Recently, a Christian friend told me how surprised her neighbour was when she dropped off a meal. Yet for those who are part of a church community, it can be a very common thing. Whether it is a new baby, an illness or a recent loss, providing meals not only meets a practical need. This simple act fosters community by reminding others they are not alone.
The book of Acts is the story of the inauguration of the church after the ascension of Jesus. In Acts 2 we read, And they were selling their possessions and belongings and distributing the proceeds to all, as any had need. And day by day, attending the temple together and breaking bread in their homes, they received their food with glad and generous hearts, praising God and having favor with all the people (v. 45-47).
The early church modelled a community of fellowship and care as God intended. When there was a need, it was met. When some were lacking, everything was shared. Although the 21st-century church in North America looks different from the early church in Acts, our mandate has never changed. This autonomous culture, which preaches self before others, threatens our calling to sacrifice and serve. However, belonging to Christ means we don’t go it alone because we belong to a community of faith.
Jesus and the early church were marked by hospitality, generosity, fellowship and care. We would do well to pattern our lives after the same.
Preparing a meal may be considered as less impactful than serving others through teaching or leadership. It goes unnoticed by the crowds. It serves just a few. That’s the fallacy of the way we often view service in God’s Kingdom. When we offer help and care during a challenging season, we reflect the kingdom of God in a meaningful way.
Tim Chester writes: “Meals bring you close. You see people in situ, in ordinary life, as they are. You connect and communicate.”
The next time the opportunity arises to provide for someone in need, remember it’s more than cooking a homemade casserole or buying a Costco chicken. A meal shared, whether dropped off at the door or around a table, shows others they are seen, supported, and cared for. It brings comfort. It says, “You belong.” It’s a declaration that community matters.
When prepared and shared for the glory of God, a meal feeds the body, spirit and soul.
Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have, for such sacrifices are pleasing to God. Hebrews 13:16
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