Mid last year, the government of Peru instituted mandatory COVID-19 lockdowns, closing everything but approved banks, food markets, and medical facilities. Since most of the population subsists on a day-to-day income, many could not fathom surviving two weeks without work.
As they ran out of food, people began hanging white flags outside their homes. The flags were a type of surrender, signalling that those inside were desperate. One church started gathering food purchased and begun delivering it to those in need.
One of the church members started noticing an increase in kids and teenagers who wandered into his house throughout the day, often around mealtimes. At first, he was a little annoyed because he didn’t always have enough prepared for 12 extra mouths. But he soon realised they were from white-flag homes. Before long, he began to sacrifice eating reasonable portions so he could share his food with those in need.
The church began to pray for God’s provision, and it wasn’t long before generous donations started coming from unexpected people and places. In a time when the church could have been struggling and paralysed, members stepped forward in boldness with the ability to provide for and encourage more than 400 families with over 600 bags of food.
Give thanks for the Lord’s continued provision to those in need. Give thanks for those who have opened their doors to the hurting and that through their sacrifices, many will come to faith. Pray that the churches will continue to be the light of hope in the communities they serve.
"You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven." - Matthew 5:14 - 16