Feeding the Filipinos

Riding in the van through the narrow streets of the slum villages, we would call out to the people, “Feeding, feeding!” to let them know we have come to give them food.  The children would begin repeating in shouts what we said and then run to fetch their bowl or cup to receive their food from the back of the van.
 

Pastor Dewey would lead us in singing the Doxology or would have one of us pray over the people and bless the food before we began to dish out the only guaranteed sustenance these people had for the day, or maybe longer.  The food is nutritious, full of protein, fiber, and vegetables.  Kids International Ministries receives the food packets from an organization called Orphan Grain Train, based in the US.  It is shipped to the Philippines and cooked in boiling water, then loaded up in two large containers.

 
The children line up first, mothers holding their babies, older siblings and parents at the end of the line.  They are so grateful to receive a warm meal that fills their bellies.  

Some of the mornings we hand out clothing.  Shirts, pants, skirts, shorts, and dresses are snatched without any care of the size, style, color, or fit.  The second-hand, often well-worn, garments are taken with excitement and shown off to one another with gladness.  

We laugh and play with the children in the street. Most are full of laughter and ask for their picture to be taken, followed by the request to see their faces on the screen.  They giggle with delight and ask for more.  They hug us and thank us.  I am humbled by their adoration for us and for the chance to be a part of their world for about an hour each morning.

 
It is an opportunity to experience what Jesus asks of Simon Peter in John 21.  “Do you love me?” Jesus asks.  Peter replies and tells the Lord yes.  Jesus tells Peter that because of his love, he is to take care of and feed His sheep.  It is a privilege to help those in need.  We have been given so much, and the Father has a heart for the orphans and widows, the have-nots, the downcast and forgotten.  My time on the World Race has grown my heart to reflect more of God’s heart for this world. 

Meeting the physical needs of people, by giving them food and clothing, is a tangible way to show them the love of God. 

 
It is practical and life-giving. 

 
It is love in action.