Devotional - March 5, 2011

The full Rice & Beans Month devotional booklet "Shared Elements" is available for download here

Matthew 25:37-40
“Then the righteous will answer him, ‘Lord, when did
we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you
something to drink? When did we see you a stranger
and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you?
When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit
you?’ The King will reply, ‘I tell you the truth, whatever
you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine,
you did for me.’” (NIV)

Reflection
It's amazing and humbling to realize our Lord identifies with and cares about those in need, the least of these; in fact He calls them His brothers. I think it's also important to recognize God's interest in our hearts for His people. He desires to see His love being made perfect in us through His son, Jesus. What greater way than by putting the needs of others first. God is interested in
where our time, money, and resources go because it reveals the motives of our hearts. Rice & Beans Month last year really softened my heart to the choices I make daily and how those choices affect the vulnerable. God spoke volumes into an area of my life that had somehow become normal because of the culture I live in and because of my own sin. It gave me a chance to become more aware of God's voice. This could easily become about what we can and cannot eat, but I pray it wouldn't be about rules and regulations, rather a real desire to fast towards God and to love others. Hopefully it's also a craving for His Kingdom here on earth. By participating this month you're standing united with your brothers and sisters in need and you're sharing with them. I pray you are as encouraged by this as I am.

- Katie Potter, Lahash Volunteer

For Kids
Did you know God cares about and loves people who are hungry, thirsty,
sick, and even those in jail? He also wants us to care about those in need,
because we are His children. As you eat rice and beans this month you are
eating the same meal that poor people eat. You can show them that you
and God love them by sharing what you saved by only eating rice and
beans this month.