Our Expansion Story: Reimagine

A few years ago, we had a food basket in our gathering space where we collected donations for the Crystal Lake Food Pantry. Occasionally, women would stop by asking for food, and we always said yes. But something about the way they had to dig through that basket bothered me. It felt impersonal, even undignified. The intention to help was there, but the method needed reimagining.

I had heard about Blessing Boxes—small pantries where people could take what they needed, no questions asked—and wondered if we could create something similar. After some research and conversations with friends, I brought the idea to the Thoughts, Prayers, and Action Team. In no time, we had a Blessing Box set up inside our church. It wasn’t just a random basket anymore; it was a shelf where people could “shop,” complete with bags to carry their items. Above the box, a sign reads, "Take what you need, leave what you can, and be blessed."

Just days before Christmas break, the box was filled, and since then, I’ve been in awe of how God has worked through our community to provide for those facing food insecurity. It’s not just a box of food; it’s a symbol of dignity, a reimagined way to serve others.

Our middle school youth even got involved, organizing a food scavenger hunt in the neighborhood to stock the box. Neighbors noticed too. One woman, who attends meetings at our church, said the box inspired her to give back. And it’s not just the adults—middle schoolers have been moved as well. A few weeks ago, one student stood in front of the empty box and said, “It makes me sad when I see this empty.” That moment was a reminder that it’s not just about food; it’s about community care.

There’s an unspoken rhythm between the people of Crystal Lake and our Bethany community. Some bring food, others take what they need, and all without judgment. It’s a space of dignity and compassion, where generosity flows freely. We reimagined what helping people could look like, and the results have been nothing short of inspiring.

This journey reflects Our Expansion Story, where we are called to grow in faith, generosity, and trust in God’s abundance. As we hear in the story this Sunday of Hannah, “The Lord raises up the poor from the dust; He lifts the needy from the ash heap, to make them sit with princes and inherit a seat of honor” (1 Samuel 2:8).

God’s economy flips over the ways we normally think about wealth and security, reminding us that real treasure lies in caring for one another.

As we continue this stewardship series, I encourage all of you to reimagine what your resources—time, money, and energy—could look like when used for justice and care. Like the Blessing Box, where people receive and give without hesitation, we can use what we have to build a community where no one feels less than, and everyone has enough.

This week, during our children’s sermon, the students will collect a Noisy Offering for the Crystal Lake Food Pantry. I invite you to bring your change and join in this effort. Let’s support those in our community who face food insecurity, reminding them, as God reminds us, that we are cared for, we are blessed, and we are called to bless others.

Let’s reimagine together, as we continue Our Expansion Story. How will you answer God’s call to care?