Popeye the Sailor Man could only stands so much. Where injustice abounded, especially toward the frail and needy, Popeye would famously say, “I can’t stands no more” and then would open up a can of…well, spinach in this case, giving him superhuman resolve, and then look out bad guys!
What can’t you “stands” any longer? What simultaneously brings you tears of sorrow and anger? What is it that motivates you to action?
For me it’s comfortable church goers and empty harvest fields. Jesus said, “The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field.” Luke 10:2
Stephanie H is a neighbor and Assistant Principal at our community middle school. Knowing of our organization she invited me to speak to her fellow administrators about volunteerism in their school. Marshall Durham Middle School has 780 ethnically diverse students, 65 teachers, and is a Texas Title 1 school (meaning a large low income student population). The needs are staggering.
Finishing my presentation we moved into a Q&A time. My first question, “So tell me about your current volunteers and the roles they play?” An awkward silence filled the room, and then the answer, “we don’t have any volunteers”. I’m not sure how long I sat silently, not sure what to say. I do remember the emotions of disbelief, deep sadness, and ultimately a brewing anger.
You’ve got to be kidding me! 780 students, many in an at risk category, 65 hardworking and under appreciated teachers and NO ONE to come along side and lend a hand. I CAN’T STANDS NO MORE!
Lots of difficult factors contribute to this schools dire need – single parent homes, low wage earners, 39 apartment complexes and budget hotels feeding the school, kids moving on average three times per year. HOWEVER I also know that there are 36 churches and places of worship in this community.
So what you ask is my holy discontent, my “I can’t stands no more” ? Comfortable church goers and empty harvest fields. A mentor of mine is famously known for saying that Jesus came to, “comfort the afflicted and afflict the comforted”.
This week I begin to meet with pastors and churches, and community and corporate leaders on behalf of the children and teachers of Marshall Durham Middle School. Administrators will hold listening sessions with their faculty to gauge what are the top five volunteer needs. By the grace of God, the power of prayer, and the moving of the Spirit, “…the Lord of the harvest…WILL …send out workers into his harvest field.”
Volunteers welcomed!
