Do you remember this song? The first line goes like this, “My hot dog has a first name. . . .” I was recently in a conversation with a staff person here at St. Luke’s who told me that they had gotten to ride in the Oscar Mayer Wienermobile. I was fascinated to hear this. I grew up hearing that commercial jingle, seeing the commercial with the hot dog car, and eating these hot dogs at lunch or dinner. It was a wonderful conversation that reminded me about something fun from my youth.
I also recently read about a hot dog slogan that was helping to change the world. It reads, “If you’re hungry, we got you!” At Perfectly Frank, a restaurant near Old Dominion University in Norfolk, Virginia, guests are invited to help their neighbors in a special way. As patrons enjoy a meal, they are invited to give a meal. When a meal is donated, it is placed on a bulletin board. If someone is having a difficult time, they can remove a ticket and receive a free meal, no questions asked.
Throughout the pandemic, Perfectly Frank has been a blessing to so many. Their commitment to help started with a customer who gave each employee a $100 tip. They also left $500 to help those who were hungry. Since then, Perfectly Frank has continued to collect funds to help while giving away meals to those in need. They have collected over $15,000 from the community and continue to give away over 25 meals a week. They have now partnered with others to provide bulk meals to better help their community.
If you started this devotional by singing the Oscar Mayer jingle, you probably did it with a smile. That song has imprinted itself on our collective memories. Music has the ability to bring great joy. Serving our neighbors brings even greater joy. Tarah Morris, the owner of Perfectly Frank, told ABC news, “We are in the middle of all of these miracles and it’s been very touching.” When we serve, we bless others and bring joy to ourselves. Giving a hot dog is a small gesture, but it is a gift to those who are struggling. Look around today for a chance to be a blessing. You can be part of a miracle. The opportunity is right in front of you.
– Rev. Keith King, Pastor of Worship
