Freeing Potential

The Missional Imperatives mentioned earlier are written large on the wall of the pantry lobby. We discuss one every pantry day with the volunteers, trying to infuse them with the way we want to operate. Let’s look at the imperatives a little deeper.

Liberate Potential may be our most powerful imperative. Many of us know that students can’t learn well if they are hungry. Adults can’t work well or parent well if they are hungry. God created each of us for a reason. Financial hardship can get in the way of fulfilling that reason. If we can help a stomach fuel learning, if we can help an adult get or keep a job, if we can help someone be a better parent because we’ve eased their physical needs—maybe we’re helping them be who God made them to be. Living out God’s call and will in our lives will lead to ultimate fulfillment. If we can help that process even a little bit, we’ve succeeded.

Like talking with a neighbor who had been living in his vehicle for three years, since moving here from up north for a job that didn’t pan out. He came to us for food, but he also volunteered in the pantry. Getting to know him and his skillset, we offered a connection to a potential employer. He got an interview that day and started work the following Monday. That job allowed him to obtain housing and start on his path to a flourishing life.

Come see how we are living out these imperatives as we strive to help our neighbor.