Love is Kind

During a master's level ministry class, the question was asked, "How could you make a difference?" Founder Teresa Sheppard struggled to come up with a concept. Sheppard always believed we should "treat people like people" (That means showing kindness and respect to other humans because they are human, too.), but how do you turn that mindset into a ministry? How do you love people like Jesus did but not force religion on them? 

Jesus walked around with his crew (disciples) and broke bread with people. Jesus didn't pick the religious people to hang out with. Jesus went to visit with tax collectors, doctors, prostitutes, sick, disowned, rich, poor, women, and even non-Jews. (Racial and gender issues were a thing even in the Bible days.)

The premise was and is simple. Try to be more like Jesus. Go to people and be kind. (Love is kind) Sheppard had her brother build a custom, "Rustic, Appalachian Style" food trailer. The idea to use the food trailer as a ministry was born. Select times and locations to set up with the food trailer, give a complimentary beverage and pastry to anyone who orders (while supplies last), and be kind to them.  

An option is that people who visit the food trailer can request prayer (either verbally or by filling out a prayer card for a drop box), and they can donate to pay it forward. Neither prayer nor donations are required.  We will use sponsors to cover the cost of items. It is an excellent form of marketing and provides a service to the community. 

Sheppard learned from her career in sales that a one-time meeting at an event typically yields little results. Anything meaningful occurs only when a relationship is developed over time. 

That is why we will stay in touch with the newsletter, blogs, website, and social media accounts. As well as a presence in the community.   It is not a once-and-done, but a "We are your neighbors, and we are here with you." 

The idea is that no matter who you are, what you look like, what you did wrong, who you voted for, your financial status, your politics, or even what religion you have or don't have. You are a human, and we want to show you loving kindness. 

Coffee and kindness between humans. Come out to see us! Whomever you are, you are welcome here. 

#love #coffee #kindness #jesusislove #neighbors #gathered