In December if 2022, a winter storm descended upon Knoxville, Tennessee and brought cold unlike the city had seen in decades. In our neighborhood in East Knoxville, we had many homeless men, women and children. We knew that our neighborhood would be at risk in many ways, so, after much prayer, and discussion we decided to open our doors as the cold moved in. This happened over the Christmas weekend, December 23-36.
Jesus tells us as his followers to feed the hungry, to clothe the naked, to house the homeless and to care for the sick and visit the imprisoned (Matthew 25:31-40). This is something at Magnolia Avenue United Methodist Church we did not take lightly. And, so, with the help of the people of Knoxville, we did. Donations poured in. Food, clothing, cots, blankets, pillows, funds, and most of all, voluunteers from all walks of life, Christian and non-Christian.
No one was turned away. Over 125 men, women and children found a refuge that Christmas weekend. Many were saved, several were baptized, and God was above all glorified.
It wasn’t easy, but it was a blessing to all who were involved. As people departed on the cold, snowy morning of December 26th, my heart was burdened for our neighborhood. And, so we made the descision as a church council to continue to open our doors when cold weather moved in. Those actions inspired other churches to do the same.
So may your church open its heart and its doors to the less fortunate in your neighborhood, for Gods glory, as you advance the gospel, under the power of the Holy Spirit. Amen
