As we approach Easter, we are reminded of God’s boundless love for us, demonstrated most profoundly in the sacrifice of His Son, Jesus, on the cross. It’s a time to reflect on God’s grace – grace that is unearned, undeserved, and yet freely given.
At St. Luke’s Community Market, we have an opportunity each week to share a tangible expression of that grace with our neighbors in need. Every Friday, our volunteers gather at the Community Market, where we provide fresh produce, dairy, protein, and other essential food items to people who may struggle to access these resources elsewhere. Many of our clients live in areas where grocery stores are scarce, and for some, getting enough food means choosing between necessities like rent and utilities or putting food on the table. We’re not just giving out groceries; we are offering grace in the form of provision, compassion, and understanding. The work we do becomes an extension of God’s love in action.
As we interact with our clients week after week, we come to know their names, their struggles, and their hopes. We become part of their community, and they become part of ours. It’s not uncommon for a conversation to center around a recent illness, a job search, or the challenges of living paycheck to paycheck. And it’s in these moments, when we listen, offer encouragement, or provide a small gift, that the work we do transcends simple food distribution. We’re sharing the love of Christ.
Lately, we’ve been blessed with the opportunity to offer even more practical assistance, such as hats, gloves, and socks, as the cold winter months have made it even harder for many to stay warm. A few weeks ago, we were able to give a grocery cart to a client who walks to Community Market every week to collect food for his family. When he received the cart, his eyes welled with tears. He couldn’t believe we would give him such a simple yet invaluable gift. In his eyes, that cart was more than just a tool for carrying food; it was an act of grace, a tangible sign that he was seen, valued, and cared for.
This act of kindness, this simple gift of food or a cart or a pair of gloves, reflects the grace that Jesus extended to us on the cross. In this season of Lent, we are called to reflect on how we can offer grace to others in the same way Christ has shown it to us. The work we do at St. Luke’s is more than just a service – it is an opportunity to live out the love of Jesus in our community, offering grace not just in words but in action. May we continue to serve with open hearts and hands, sharing God’s love with those who need it most.
Lori Hall, Executive Director of Missions
