I had wonderful conversations with the organizers of a local food bank distribution center near my work. The one gentleman spoke of giving talks at organizations, especially from more affluent areas, about these pockets of poverty, areas really in socio-economic hardships with people in need. Well, I would say driving through this old old OLD town it was a whole lot of rundown houses but I had a big sense of how they were renovating HOPE. This organization (in the beautiful old YWCA building) is truly a gem in this pocket of poverty. I mentioned how wonderful instead to see the pocket of HOPE.  I witnessed not only SO MUCH food, but I saw a reinvigorated LIFE in a co-volunteer at this food bank, not just a spark, but a whole fire of excitement.  It’s a humble witness I must have, I must, because I saw him crushed broken by a tragedy, and now I’ve seen him re-pieced together.  Now returned to a fire-work of energy, a spark to get a fire going in others, that he has something so passionate that he is feeling about that he wants to share.  I am BLESSED to witness him back to his old self. Thank God. Thank You God.

Pockets of HOPE. I know God did that. Pieced him back together after a great tragedy. Hope. This is an ongoing process, for his whole family, continued prayers appreciated. 

This foodbank is also unique in that it doesn’t check residency or limit monthly visits. Each week they pick up excess groceries and combine with the donated food. People lined up and with photos in my heart I forever hold on to the clearest view: HOPE. 

Pockets of HOPE. 

Amen. 

Thanks God.

Do you not know?  Have you not heard?
The Lord is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth.
He will not grow tired or weary, and his understanding no one can fathom.
He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak.
Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength.
They will soar on wings like eagles;  they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint. Isaiah 40:28-31