Is There a Need?

This is a question that I thought I knew the answer to when it comes to our small community. The full question went like this, "Is there a need for small, home cooked meals for our community members?" I was sure I'd be told that the answer was, "no." I was wrong. It was a resounding yes from our local health department/food bank.

I am someone who believes with all my heart that God has gifted each one of us with something special that we can use to give back in His honor and for His glory. 1 Peter 4:10 says, "As each one has received a gift, minister it to one another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God." Isn't that beautiful? Using our gifts to minister others as stewards for our Lord?

My gift is giving, I love giving gifts and surprising others. That, combined with my love for cooking, is why I chose to ask if there was a need for home cooked meals. I wanted to give back in a way that made sense to me. Not what worked for others because many of the ways others give aren't ways that I feel called to do so. In 2020 I began cooking meals for 2-3 people to donate to our local health department/food bank to find homes for. I say sporadically because I honestly never know when I'm going to get to cook. I'd love to do it on a more set schedule, but for now, sporadic works.

Six pans of enchiladas ready to go!

This weekend, after a long period of no cooking, I was able to finally make some meals again. I chose to use 2 roasts and was able to make 5 small pans of beef & bean enchiladas, and 1 pan of beef enchiladas. The feeling that it brings knowing these meals will go to those who don't often get home cooked meals is beautiful. It goes to show that you never know if there's a need (for anything) unless you ask.

Labeled with Cooking Instructions

A few other meals that I enjoy making for our community are chicken alfredo bake, beef & rice burritos, taco pasta bake, roast beef & mashed potatoes, and chicken enchiladas.

"Give, and it will be given to you: good measure, pressed down, shaken together, and running over will be put into your bosom. For with the same measure that you use, it will be measured back to you.” - Luke 6:38

Have you asked if there's a need in your local community? If not, and you feel called to do so, please give your local health department, food bank, or other community foundation a call and see what they are in need of. The answer just might surprise you!