Hungry Flock

St. Timothy's has revived its "Hungry Flock" dinners; last night was the first gathering. A group of us met at our hosts' home for a lovely potluck dinner and fellowship. While the food was great, the real nourishment of the evening came from the social interaction and bonds of community that we began to form over good food and wine. There are countless references to God's flock throughout the Bible. From Genesis to 1 Peter in the New Testament, flocks of sheep are used as a metaphor for God's people. And as God's people, we are hungry for His word in our lives and to be part of His community of faith. What better way to do these things than inside the spiritual practice of hospitality? As Ana Maria Pineda states in Practicing Our Faith, "...offering hospitality is a moral imperative." God expects us to welcome the stranger; sharing a meal with those within our church whom we don't know is a way to welcome all into the community of faith at St. Timothy's. And growing and strengthening our faith community is vital to doing God's work not only within the fellowship of the church, but also outside the church walls as we take God's love into the world.

I expect as we continue to gather for monthly dinners that friendships will grow, and we'll realize synergies of faith that will enrich our spiritual lives and provide us with opportunities to serve.