Jesus said: ‘Come to me, all you that are weary and are carrying heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me; for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.’  (Matthew 11:28-30)

It happens almost every day: someone calls the church looking for help. Maybe a government cheque of some kind has been delayed. Of there has been illness in the family, or unexpected company has arrived. Or ...

There are all sorts of reasons, but what unites the people who call here seeking assistance is that they have no "living margin." Every resource is committed to getting by day to day, and then just barely. When something out of the ordinary happens, people go hungry.

What we can do is little enough -- usually a $25 supermarket gift card, perhaps more if there are several children involved. It doesn't buy a lot of food these days, but it buys something. What I see in the people who ask for help is the weariness that comes from the well-learned expectation that there will be nothing for them.

$25 isn't much. I wish there was more we could (would?) do here, but for the moment perhaps it can be a sign of hope, an indication that someone cares.

Lord Jesus,
you promised to take our burdens upon you.
Give us the strength to reach out to those in need,
lifting their burdens,
and brightening their lives.