Ladies, through this difficult time, I’ve mentioned that people have been caring for me as I helped care for my family. Honestly, I’ve not been much of a cook lately. When I look back, the past few months have been kind of a blur….I know many of you know what I mean when I say that. Trauma has a way with us-our bodies, our memory, etc. just barely function as we keep going. We just push and get through with the strength only God can lend.
Whenever I would be the recipient of a meal ministry and had my phone on me, I would snap pictures so I could show them on the blog. All of this is to glorify God and to show how he works through others so to comfort us.
Phil 2:13 states “For it is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill his good purpose.”
This delicious meal came from my daughter’s teacher. I was so humbled when she asked to make a meal for us, as she serves me so much every day by teaching and caring for my little one. This is the perfect example of how we can bring a very special meal to someone that’s semi-homemade. She ordered the most delicious stromboli you’d ever eat, made a salad with apples, cranberries, nuts and feta cheese with an amazing dressing, cut up oranges and added after dinner mints and a bag of cookies.
My children were so excited to get these twirly straws…and aren’t those napkins beautiful? When you’re out and about at Marcs (or whatever discount store you might have near you) pick up items like this in advance for ministry opportunities.
I was so excited to share this idea with you Ladies….she took the bottom of a cardboard box and wrapped it in beautiful paper. This is such an excellent idea for a serving tray that doesn’t need to be given back. She also used large Ziplock bags so I didn’t have to give those back either.
This meal will forever stay in my heart- what a blessing it was. My children were also so filled with joy that their teacher did this for all of us. I’d say her name, but I fear embarrassing her…she’s amazing.
Hi Janelle,
I love this idea. So often The thought of cooking a whole meal for someone else and putting it altogether can seem a little daunting, but doing it this way for me anyway is something I could do especially working full time with a family. Thank you for sharing. I must say I’ve learnt what it is to receive these last few years. I love to give in whatever way I can but God has taught me what it is to receive and the blessing I allow to happen to the giver when I receive graciously, much as Jesus received a place to stay and food to eat when He walked His earth. It is humbling to say the least and yet beautiful too when we are in the midst of tough times, whatever they may be. I’ll keep you and your family in my prayers.
Your sister in Christ
Love and hugs xx
Amen Denise- I too have had to learn how to be a receiver- I’m much more “comfy” giving for sure. Our pride can humble us, but really- it’s such a blessing and a way that God loves on us during hard times.
I love the idea of a meal ministry. I had a couple of people bring me lunch after my knee surgery, and it was nice to see a visitor along with the meal. I’m going to do this next time I get the chance to help someone who is homebound. And the napkins – what a beautiful touch.
So true Gina! It can brighten our day to have company (and a meal) <3 Hope you are back on your feet!
Thank you for sharing your meal ministry ideas! I love you site! I was able to bless a family with a meal and the inspiration came from you! It was for a mother and her three kids that were home sick with the stomach flu. I made chicken noodle soup, packed some crackers, cut up some apples and oranges, gave some candy canes, gingerbread cookies, a bottle of gingerale and a bottle of Gatorade. I just took one of my extra cooler bags and packed it all in that except for the drinks which I just put in a bag. I felt good to be able to bless them with a meal and the mother told me that she never had anyone do that for her before. Thanks again for your posts and God bless you and your family!
Oh wow, thank you for telling me this Jamie! What a blessing to me that you are being the hands and feet of Jesus to those around you! I am sure you made their day <3 <3 <3
Fabulous idea! Thanks for sharing photos too…that always helps me remember. I have let up doing meal ministry and want to work on increasing that outreach in this new year. How very sweet to be ministered to so sweetly by your daughter’s teacher. You are such an inspiration…and I love how God has returned the blessing to you that you already are to so many others.
What have I missed?? Have you been sick? I am so sorry whatever the reason you have needed help.
Amazing that I have cooked for people over the years when there has been sickness or a death. I never looked at it as a ministry until I read about your meal ministry. It truly is too.
I took a meal last week of BBQ, Baked Beans, Baked Potatoes, Slaw, Buns, and a variety of 3 desserts. They seemed very pleased. I made sure nothing had to be returned to me. Actually to could all be tossed when they finished.
Sweet Janelle,
I am so sorry for the recent loss of your MIL. She sounds like an amazing woman. I hope you are finding comfort in knowing she is no longer suffering and that you will see her again in Heaven. Thank you for sharing this post of the sweet meal that was delivered to you. What great tips for adding special touches to bless those who need a little bright spot during difficult times. I’ve missed coming by your blog and seeing what you are up to. What a light and comfort you are to a hurting world! I just subscribed by email to get your latest posts and keep up with you better. Have a blessed 2015!
Nici
Thank you so much Nici <3
Love your encouraging words on how meaningful a delivered meal can be. I especially like the encouragement to use some well made bought ingredients combined with special little touches. For a new mom with small children those little extra toys would be gold! I often make double batches of family meals like chili and keep them in the freezer to be able to give on short notice. Nice post!
Thank you so much sweet Teresa!
Hi Janelle, I like the meal ministry idea, its my first time to hear about it. It is an amazing idea, and I will definitely adopt it. May God bless you indeed.
Aww, thank you Naomi!