PRAISING GOD TOGETHER

I have loved God and enjoyed helping others since a very young age. But when I turned twelve, I finally got the chance to help my mom and dad make food and distribute it to day laborers. These people stand on the street looking for work, they may not be in the country legally, may have minimal education, and barely make enough to support their families. With my family, I bring them a meal every week—and we also sing and praise God, giving them the spiritual motivation to not give up.

I love visiting these day laborers because I can relate to them in so many ways. I think about how blessed I am because, even though I, too, don’t have my papers, I have been able to get an education. I also admire the stories they tell me because through them I learn that nothing is impossible.

Lastly, even though I am giving them a helping hand, they help me become more humble and courageous. I remember one time I went to do my normal routine making and distributing food with my mom and dad. We became overwhelmed with tears when, instead of us praying for the day laborers as was our custom, they prayed for us. I’ve been doing this with my family for five years and I still get the same feeling as the first time. God has opened my eyes through this ministry and I know God will continue to bless all who seek God’s love.

—Adan

For Reflection

In John 21:15–19, Jesus asks Peter three times to “feed his sheep.” Feeding a person can mean giving them food, but it can also mean nourishing them spiritually. What are some ways you can feed people who hunger for God?

We are all called to live in community and to care for one another. In community, we come together and share what we have and are nourished by the sharing. Think of three examples of how God has blessed you in the past twenty-four hours. How is God inviting you to share that blessing with others?