Sermons

Community Clothing

When a person receives gently used clothing it can feel like a lifeline. In moments of need, a simple garment offers more than protection; it can ofter dignity, comfort, and a profound sense of being seen. This generosity is not just about the clothes; it is about something far deeper, something that flows from the heart, obedience to Jesus.

At its core, every true act of kindness, every hand extended in support, should find its meaning in love of God. This is why, when one received clothes given by the congregation, they were not just given fabric and thread; they were placed in an act of profound compassion. The truth is, providing for those who need it most - those who are always with us (Mark 14:7), facing daily challenges - is an act of charity. And because all genuine charity is commanded by love (1 Corinthians 13:3), the clothes they received are a tangible expression of that powerful, selfless act.

Consider your donation of kindness does not end with a single act. Just as the Bible reminds us that the poor will always be with us, so too will opportunities to help and to share. The very essence of the congregation is by giving and receiving, supporting one another through life. Your receiving a gift is a powerful reminder of how much a simple gesture can mean.

As one wears these clothes, we invite you to consider the spirit in which they were given. And in time, as your circumstances may shift and your strength grows, we encourage you to reflect on how one might "pay it forward." This does not necessarily mean providing clothing yourself, though it certainly could. It could mean offering a kind word, volunteering your time, sharing a skill, or simply being a compassionate presence for someone else in need.

Helping others who may not know the Word of God is the Christian's primary goal. Knowing God's Word will lead all of us to do what Jesus has already accomplished for man. To give freely in whatever way we can to glorify God to the world around us.

- asa