Pastor Blog

Feeding the 5,000

Mar 03, 2010

It was late. The people were tired and hungry. The disciples were whiney and unsympathetic. The Lord had been teaching for most of the day, and it was time for dinner. “Send them away” was the solution of the disciples. But He answered them and said, “You give them something to eat” (Mark 6:37). And then, it happened. The disciples surrendered all they had — five loaves of bread and two fish. That was more than enough in the hands of the Savior. He broke it. And on that day, Jesus fed 5,000 men, not to mention the women and the children.

It is late. The risen Lord Jesus could come at any time. And His words still ring true, “Do you love me … feed my sheep” (John 21:15). Do we really love Him? Are we willing to surrender what we have to be his hands and feet?

On Sunday, March 28, we have an opportunity as the Body of Christ at Blackshear Place to feed those in need and share the love of Christ. We are calling this day Feeding the 5,000. It’s a day for the entire church family to buy a box of food and take it to a family in need. You may have some questions about how this day will work. Below is a list of the Top 10 questions we have heard.

1.       Why are we doing this as a church?

The Year of Serve is all about “being Jesus with skin on.” We want to show the love of Christ as an opportunity to share the gospel. Feeding the 5,000 will give us a door to present the gospel. When we take a box of food to a hurting family, they will naturally wonder why. We can share with them that Jesus loves them and so do we. We will also be giving them a gospel tract that will explain the greatest act of service —THE CROSS.

2.       Who should be a part of Feeding the 5,000?

Everyone. We want every family to have an opportunity to participate. Even our children can hand someone a box of food and a tract.

3.       How much does it cost?

It was King David who proclaimed, “I will not sacrifice to the LORD my God offerings that cost me nothing” (2 Samuel 24:24). To help offset the cost of the food and supplies for each family, we are asking for $20 per box. If you want to purchase more than one box, you can do so. If you do not have the money, don’t let that stop you from serving. Instead, you can deliver a box that has been paid for by others.

4.       What if I can’t deliver the box on March 28?

Would you consider sponsoring a box for those who cannot afford to pay the $20? We will have families who cannot afford to purchase a box but will be available to deliver a box. You can drop by the registration table in the foyer to sign up to sponsor a family.

5.       Who will I be taking the box to?

When you pick up the box on March 28, it will be labeled with a family’s address, where it is to be delivered. We have contacted several community groups that help families in need, and they have provided a listing of families in our area. If you know a family in need, you can submit their information at the registration table in the foyer.

6.       Do I have to provide the contents of the box?

No. We have ordered pre-packaged boxes of food and supplies that we will distribute on March 28. Everything will be provided for you and be ready for delivery.

7.       How will I pick up the box on March 28?

A large tent will be set up in the main parking lot in front of the church. Volunteers will be there to make sure you get everything you need and know where to deliver your box. You can take the box before you go to lunch or anytime that afternoon. Evening activities and the evening service have been canceled on March 28 to give you time to deliver to as many families as you would like.

8.       How can I register and pay?

A registration table has been set up in the foyer for you to register and pay. You also can come by the church office or online here.

9.       Do you need volunteers on March 28 to give out boxes to the families making deliveries?

Yes. If you are interested in helping out on that weekend as we connect the boxes of food with families in need, please contact Kelly Edwards in the church office (kedwards@blackshearplace.com or 770-534-7058) to sign up.

10.   Where can I get more information about being involved with Feeding the 5,000?

More information contact Jason Nave or Kelly Edwards in the church office. You can also drop by the registration table in the foyer if you have specific questions.

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