There are many references in the Bible about feeding the hungry and thirsty, and clothing those in need. In the gospels, Jesus makes this a clear command to his people.
One of the practices in my congregation is to collect non-perishable food which is then taken to our local food bank. I live in a community where we have a relatively high rate of poverty and lower than average incomes.
In the later part of my career, I had the opportunity to assist our province in the development of a new income program for persons with disabilities. During this process, we heard stories from people living in such poverty that one meal a day was the norm. Going to a restaurant to eat was out of the question! The good news is that we now have a more adequate income program for these people.
There are needs for food and clothing in most every community in Canada. God calls us to find ways to meet that need, whether by supporting food banks or daily meal programs, or meeting in prayer to ask God to help us find ways to feed and clothe those in need.
Gracious and loving God, you have blessed us with many resources. Please open our hearts to share these with others. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen. — MB