Bulletin Statement

Follow Jesus’ Example

World Hunger Emphasis

Yesterday I visited the art museum. I went to an upper floor and into an area of artifacts from ancient civilizations.

My attention went to items, as they seemed to call out. Created over thousands of years, their commonality was a representation of human faith-theological statements in stone, wood, and paint.

Divinity was only infrequently portrayed. Most were human-based representations of high standards of piety, commitment, and behavior. They were gaunt, physically strained, and suggested a deprivation of any level of comfort in life. Cheeks sunk, ribs stuck out, navels too close to spines, and the devotion of each was aimed far beyond mere human appetite.

At home, I turned to Philippians 3:17-4:1 for this meditation. Paul had thoughts like those ancient artists. It is not in the “belly” he wrote, where real human fulfillment is to be found. Instead, it is using the body and all of its resources for the sake of others, as did Jesus.

Our commitment to feed the hungry and to quench thirst can begin by sharing in World Hunger ministries. The Jesus victory, Paul wrote, is subduing material things so that they serve others and do not enslave us. Following the Jesus example may include relatively easy steps of giving, sharing, and loving in an ongoing offering. That much we can do. And that much will transform into rice, bread, and water where only “not much” has been known until now.

Jim Cable
Independence, Missouri

March 7, 2004