(Task, Journal) A Calling Renewed: Love Served Fresh
Good morning, beloved family of Prism Church LA.
I stand before you today with a heart both humbled and stirred. Many of you heard me say that my last sermon might indeed be my final word from this pulpit. Yet here I am, called back not by my own will, but by the gentle persistence of the Holy Spirit who whispers, "There is more work to be done."
When God Interrupts Our Plans
Sometimes God's calling doesn't arrive with thunder and lightning. Sometimes it comes in the quiet moments of prayer, in the stirring of our hearts toward others, in the simple recognition that love demands action. Today, I felt that stirring so powerfully that I knew I had to be here with you.
"Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins. Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling." - 1 Peter 4:8-9
The Sacred Act of Sharing a Meal
There's something profoundly holy about preparing food for someone we love. It's an act that transcends mere nutrition—it becomes communion, connection, love made tangible.
Our heritage speaks to this truth. Whether we trace our roots to the rolling hills of Europe or the warm kitchens of the American South, we come from people who understood that a shared meal is a shared heart. Think of your grandmother's hands kneading dough, the aroma of slow-cooked stew filling the house, the way conversations flowed around tables laden with food prepared with intention and care.
"When you give a luncheon or dinner, do not invite your friends, your brothers or sisters, your relatives, or your rich neighbors... But when you give a banquet, invite the poor, the crippled, the lame, the blind, and you will be blessed." - Luke 14:12-14
Your Mission Today
I'm not asking you to wait until Sunday dinner or plan for next week. Today—this very day—I challenge you to prepare a home-cooked meal for someone you love.
Maybe it's your spouse who's been carrying heavy burdens. Perhaps it's a neighbor you've been meaning to reach out to. Could be an elderly parent, a struggling friend, or even a stranger who could use a reminder that they matter.
Here's what I want you to do:
Choose your person - Let the Holy Spirit guide your heart
Prepare something meaningful - It doesn't have to be elaborate, just made with love
Deliver it personally - Share not just the food, but your presence
Journal the experience - Write about their reaction, how it made you feel, what you learned
The Ripple Effect of Love
When we serve others through the simple act of sharing food, we're participating in something Jesus himself modeled. He fed the five thousand. He cooked breakfast for his disciples on the beach. He shared his final meal with those he loved most.
Your home-cooked meal today isn't just food—it's ministry. It's love with sleeves rolled up. It's the Gospel served on a plate.
A Heritage of Hospitality
Our European ancestors understood the sacred duty of hospitality. The Southern tradition teaches us that food is love language. When we combine these beautiful heritages with Christ's command to love one another, we create something powerful—a meal that ministers.
"And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him." - Colossians 3:17
The Journal of Joy
Don't let this moment pass without capturing it. When you see their face light up, when you witness surprise turn to gratitude, when you feel the warmth of connection—write it down. These are the moments that remind us why we're called to love actively, not just speak about it.
Your journal entry tonight might become the sermon someone else needs to hear.
Let us pray:
Heavenly Father, you have called us back to this place, to this moment, to this mission. Give us courage to step out of our comfort zones today. Guide our hands as we prepare food, our hearts as we serve, and our spirits as we witness your love in action. May every meal we share today be a reflection of your abundant grace. In Jesus' name, Amen.
Go now, beloved. Your kitchen is your mission field today. Someone is waiting for the love you're about to serve.
Grace and peace be with you all.
Pastor X
Prism Church LA