Al DeBacker, March 13-14

Applying my faith:

I am on a journey. I was 17 years old when I chose to become a Christ-follower. I will turn 59 this month. I am still listening to God and following Him. I am at a point in my journey where not only do I want to know God and his interests, but APPLY what I have learned. Last week I was taught, “God identifies with the poor.” I asked myself, “How do I identify (help, care for, love) the poor? How do I apply this truth?” Last Monday I called Marion Polk Food Share (503- 581-3855). I heard they have a need for fresh vegetables and fruits. Kat, the volunteer coordinator said, “Boy do we!” I replied, “I attend a church of about 5,000 adults; what if we encouraged our congregation to plant a garden and give the abundance to feed the poor; would that help?” “Yes!”, was her reply. I said, “But understand, knowing my church, you could have tons of food show up over a few weeks. Could you use it all?” She said, “What we can’t use we send to Portland to feed the poor there.” Now, I am NOT a gardener. What can I do? Then I remembered Costco. They have a humongous refrigerator with tons of fresh foods. What if I purchased some each time I shopped and delivered it to the Food Share (1660 Salem Industrial Drive NE, Salem)? I could do that. That’s easy. Every other grocery store in town also has fresh food we can purchase. What an easy way to identify with the poor!

Are you on a journey of “application?” Plant a garden! Or, here are some other ideas:

• I want to help people in need. Where do I find opportunities? Try the Hands-on Network (www.handsonmwv.org) which is a part of the United Way here in Salem/Keizer. They match your skills and passions to the 150+ non-profits in the valley. They’ll help you find a good fit!

• I want to help people start their own business. Try Kiva (www.kiva.org). Kiva’s mission is to connect people, through lending, for the sake of alleviating poverty.

• I want people to hear the gospel and find hope in the midst of their needs. Try volunteering at the Union Gospel Mission (www.ugmsalem.org). Hot nourishing meals, safe overnight shelter and life changing programs are just some of the full range of services offered.

• I just want to feed the hungry. That is my passion. Try Garden Ripe in Silverton. (www.gardenripe.com); this is called community supported agriculture. You could have fresh produce delivered directly to whoever is in need.