GARDENING

Yesterday we had the pleasure of visiting Urban Ministry. Though a light mist was falling, it was perfect weather to keep us cool as we worked in the Community Garden sponsored by Urban Ministry and The Church Without Walls.

Myron (left) was our host, and he offered much advice on the benefits of compost, bugs, sticks, leaves, and other things we might not think much about. But Myron offered a lot of great gardening ideas/tricks for us city folk who are not too in touch with our "roots".

When asked what one needs to do to receive some of the tomatoes, squash, cucumbers, okra, blueberries, strawberries, etc., he said all one has to do is ask. That's it! Just ask. And given the economic climate in the inner city, many are indeed in need of these groceries. A great ministry indeed!!

After we worked in the garden, we packed health kits, consisting of a bottle of water, a bar of soap, a wash rag, a crunchy snack, five pieces of peppermint and a hand written note from our youth on the gallon size storage baggie . Once packed, we were off to serve lunch. Beef tips and rice, English peas/carrots, canned fruit, and fruit beverage consisting of the leftover juice from the fruit cans mixed with pink lemonade. It wasn't exactly the meal we were accustomed to, but, then again, we are spoiled. About 85-100 folks stood in line for the delicacy.

It was a great day to once again learn what it means to be in minsitry to even the "least of these." Thank you, Lord, for our daily bread and for giving us the opportunity to serve our neighbor.