On a recent Wednesday night, a familiar family came to our Community Meal. Wednesdays are special for this family, because for one night a week, this single father does not have to worry about cooking for his four children. Instead, they can simply discuss their day, enjoy their meal, and laugh together.  

This particular Wednesday was one of the first chilly nights of the fall season, so we rolled out the rack of heavy coats to be given out to our participants. I watched as this father and his young children searched the coat rack for something that may fit. One by one, each child snuggled into a cozy coat that seemed to be tailored perfectly for them. A peace washed over the dad, as he realized they would all be warm for the season. He was visibly relieved that his children were provided for. 

This interaction was a real-life picture of how God wraps His arms around his children. Matthew 10:29-31 says, “are not two sparrows sold for a penny? And not one of them will fall to the ground apart from your Father. But even the hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear not, therefore; you are of more value than many sparrows.” God sees us, knows our every thought, and loves us more than we can imagine. 

We get to see His care for His children every day here at Lubbock Impact, specifically through watching His plan unravel before us in real time. 

Over the summer, people began to donate coats. We started to set these coats aside, knowing that they would be needed as it got colder outside. Now, we are using preparations made from seasons past to carry us through today. Currently, as the holiday season approaches, Lubbock Impact will receive a greater amount of donations in terms of monetary contributions and food items. We know these current preparations will support our participant families throughout the winter and spring. 

From leading someone to donate unused coats months ago, to bringing a family in need to Lubbock Impact, we get to see The Lord use and provide for His people. 

With fall around the corner, it’s a great time to reflect at Lubbock Impact. Throughout the summer we had the opportunity to invest in participants in richer and deeper relationships. We hosted several family nights of bingo, movies, pool parties at the Seahorse, and make-your-own pizza events. Families laughed together, learned communication skills, and built positive memories. We hosted a children’s camp each week that provided lessons in music, art, cooking, science, and hope in Jesus. The halls were filled with laughter, joy, and lots of great artwork! Several churches put on these camps and helped lead four children praying to receive Christ.

The Community Meal on Wednesdays continues to provide a place for food and fellowship. The food/hygiene pantry has seen an increase in participants due to inflation. Several enrichment classes will be offered through partnering community agencies such as parenting, legal aid, GED, and more.

Recently, families who participate in the programs have been asking how they can give back. A family of five chose to come every week this summer to help sort clothing. Serving gives individuals so much pride and joy in giving back to fellow participants.

I am excited about the changing of seasons, not only outside, but also in the hearts of the participants at Lubbock Impact. “For everything, there is a season, and a time for every purpose under heaven,” Ecclesiastes 3:1 reminds me that seasons pass, and a purpose is fulfilled. No circumstance in our lives can God not bring newness and also closure to what we thought would never end. So many participants we serve feel the hopelessness of this world and I am grateful for the opportunities we get to share the hope of a new season in Christ.

Thank you for your investment in the ministry of serving the working poor in Lubbock. You are making a physical and eternal investment.