“I will run the course of Your commandments, for You shall enlarge my heart.”
(Psalm 119:32)
The art of living is always in the giving —
Today, I’m honoured to introduce my friend, Anna, who walks that way of love.
When I reflect on what it truly means to let giving define your life, Anna comes to mind and inspires me to prioritize what truly is beautiful about living — the privilege of giving.
When giving marks your life
What good will it be for someone to gain the whole world, yet forfeit their soul? Or what can anyone give in exchange for their soul? Matthew 16:26
In the heart of our city, there’s a place called The Pantry — where food is served with kindness, grace and hope. It’s a non-profit with a mission to make a real difference in the lives of people facing hardship.
For five years, Anna has been a key part of The Pantry, providing food hampers to individuals and families who are struggling, those who are “doing it tough”, and those who, at this point, are facing hardships.
But it’s more than just handing out groceries for her and her fellow volunteers. It’s about being a friend, offering support, and showing love to those who walk through their doors. To them, it’s about believing in people and letting them know that their struggles are not the end of their story, and that they can have the hope and means not only to survive but to thrive.
“We don’t see ourselves as just a food ministry,” Anna says. “We’re a place where people can find a warm smile, a listening ear, and the extra love and care they need during tough times.”
It’s sobering to think that one in six people in our city faces hunger every day. Whether it’s due to unexpected job losses, health issues, or just trying to make ends meet — the need is real.
Last Christmas, The Pantry’s “Fill a Bag, Fill a Heart” campaign provided our “Write Your Life Forward” community an opportunity to contribute simple food staples.
The Pantry loaded our little offerings with treats to create special Christmas bags that brought much comfort and joy to those facing difficult times last Christmas.
“We believe in the power of community,” Anna tells me, “and that’s what God is calling me to do right now.”
And it’s true:
“The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.”
The Pantry
What giving comes down to
“We’re not giving what we’re called to give, unless that giving affects how we live — affects what we put on our plate and where we make our home and hang our hat and what kind of threads we’ve got to have on our back.
Surplus Giving is the leftover you can afford to give; sacrificial Giving is the love gift that changes how you live — because the love of Christ has changed you. God doesn’t want your leftovers. God wants your love overtures, your first-overs, because He is your first love.”
Ann Voskamp
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