“and if you spend yourselves in behalf of the hungry
and satisfy the needs of the oppressed,
then your light will rise in the darkness,
and your night will become like the noonday.” -Isaiah 58:10
The Korea House restaurant in Austin, Texas, has captured the attention of many people around the country. They have good food, for sure, but that is not why so many are talking about this local treasure. The Korea House is giving food away, and business could not be better.
The owner of the restaurant felt that her faith was leading her to feed the hungry. So, on the first Wednesday of each month, the restaurant provides food to anyone who comes through the doors, free of charge. Many of the staff volunteer their time while the owner, Pok-Cha Kim, pays for the food out of her own pocket. Often, there is a line outside the door before they open for lunch. They recently passed serving 15,000 meals for free. If people leave tips or donations on that day, they collect the money and donate it to help the local homeless.
Giving away food for free is not a great business model, but it is a powerful example of living a faithful life. In a recent interview, Vivian Newton, the General Manager, said, “We’re not rich, but when we share with others, always God provide us betting things somehow.” She believes that this is the right thing to do, having established a successful business in 1988. They believe it is important to bless others, just as they have been blessed.
The owner and staff of the Korea House understood they had been given a gift that would bless others. They not only provide a nice warm meal, but a place for the community to gather and experience the love of God. When they open the door on that first Wednesday, they do so with a smile and a welcoming spirit. Lives are being blessed by the wonderful generosity. Each time, people gather hope, because they realize the love of God is real and at work through God’s people.
The restaurant posted an invitation that reads, “Feeling lonely, struggling lately, or low in spirit? Please come. Our hope is to provide a safe and peaceful space and for everyone to leave with a full heart, warmed soul, and a full belly.” This is a beautiful invitation. It sounds so much like the one Jesus shared with us, “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.” (Matthew 11:27-29)
God has given us gifts to bless others. We can provide full hearts, warmed souls, and even full bellies if we operate with a generous spirit.
-Rev. Keith King, Pastor of Worship
