Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

I admit, I don’t often go to the grocery store. Therefore, I’m not attuned to food prices. My wife wasn’t feeling well recently, so I had to “forage for food” as we say. And I was surprised that the base price for anything seemed to be $5. I picked up 4 or 5 things — milk, yogurt, a box of cereal, and a bag of chips — over $25! Yikes! It’s little wonder our church food pantry is so busy these days (and thank you to all of you who are contributing to that ministry)!

It’s indeed true that in this world, food prices and food insecurity are on the rise. As bad as it is here in the United States, it’s nothing compared to other parts of the world where food inflation continues rising in dramatic fashion — upwards of 5-10% or more per month in many parts of the world!

Things certainly are difficult for many in the world right now. And God calls on those of us who have an abundance to help those who live in poverty (Leviticus 23:22, Matthew 25:31-46). In that way we show love for God as we “love our neighbors as ourselves” (Matthew 22:39) in our obedience to God’s 5th commandment (LSC Catechism). But one day, God also promises that food insecurity will no longer be a problem in the world.

God’s word urges all mankind to come to Him so they can receive wine, milk, bread, and rich food at no cost! (Isaiah 55:1-2) This is a picture of God’s new creation — the place where all who incline their ears to God and His word, who trust His promises of forgiveness and eternal life through His Son, Jesus Christ will be able to find rest from labor and true peace. We aren’t there today, but it is coming. Trust God. Trust His promise.

In addition to our Food Pantry, another way to help those in poverty today is Food for the Poor. You can find out more at www.foodforthepoor.org.

                                                                        In the Love of Christ,

                                                                        Pastor Jim