Voices: Pass the plate this thanksgiving season

Operación San Andrés (OSA) is a ministry that serves children and families in Collique, Peru through hunger relief programs and education. On Nov. 27, 2018, donations to the Texas Baptist Hunger Offering will purchase meals for children at OSA. (Photo: Texas Baptist Christian Life Commission)

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Sometimes it’s hard to remember goodness when hatred and violence abound.

Richard Foster’s words remind me of God’s true heart: “Our God is not made of stone. His heart is the most sensitive and tender of all. No act goes unnoticed, no matter how insignificant or small. A cup of cold water is enough to put tears in the eyes of God. God celebrates our feeble expressions of gratitude.”

Giving Tuesday, Nov. 27, is a day dedicated to these feeble expressions by giving back. Donations to the Texas Baptist Hunger Offering that day will purchase meals for marginalized children at Operación San Andrés in Collique, Peru. The goal is to raise $10,000 for 5,000 meals.

I love the imagery of the Creator of the universe tearing up when a cup or plate passes from hand to hand—with a smile, no doubt. It is like celebrating communion—an act of worship and reverence for God. Heaven seems to meet earth in the simplest of places.

I had the joy of visiting Operación San Andrés last spring. It was an honor to meet the students and leaders and see the impact of the ministry. Each child has access to nutritious meals and a high-quality education in a loving, Christ-filled environment.

One of my favorite aspects of the ministry is a counselor who is on staff for the entire family system. Families receive emotional and spiritual support as many have experienced trauma and loss. Operación San Andrés is a great place—shining the light of Christ in tangible ways.

Giving Tuesday is a global movement designed to encourage individuals and communities to give back after Thanksgiving, Black Friday and Cyber Monday.

Instead of plunging into consumerism this season, what if we celebrate gratitude as the people of God by passing this plate this Thanksgiving?

Click here to learn more about Giving Tuesday and Operación San Andrés.


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Ali Corona is the Hunger & Care Ministries Specialist for the Texas Baptist Christian Life Commission and is a member of First Baptist Church in Marble Falls.


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