Thought about taking an offshore mission trip?

We know there are challenges around the world - and much of it is due to lack of faith in a Living, Loving God. At the same time, it's far to easy to ignore the challenges in our own neighborhood, our community and our region. Some we see every day and become numb to, and many we don't because they are hidden from our daily commute.

For those of you who aren't aware, there is significant poverty in this country, in Tennessee, in Williamson County (considered by many to be the wealthiest county in the entire country). Of course some of it is among people who have grown up with low expectations of themselves, and high expectations of a terribly inefficient social system. As a professional realtor, I also see a "hidden poverty" among people who have purchased a home beyond their means, and struggle to live there. And we would be deaf not to hear of people who decide every day which bills to pay, whether to buy groceries or needed medications, etc.

You will hear some who criticize those they see as rich, expecting the government to exact much of that wealth to fund social programs. Of course, that same government has challenges providing programs to those in need without corresponding accountability.

I'd encourage you to become familiar with a friend and neighbor of mine, Chris Whitney (pastor of Nashville Family Church) and his 5-year ministry ( www.onegenaway.com ). "One Gen Away" stands for his vision that in one generation, we can eliminate racism, denominationalism and poverty in America. Strong words. Want to see how he is making it happen?

I'd encourage you to join us in Nashville this coming Saturday, May 9. This service project will change your perspective. At a minimum, Chris and his ministry will have 2 large trucks (one a full-tractor trailer) on-site at 1034 West Eastland Ave, Nashville 37206 (near Aldi/Kroger on Gallatin Ave, just north of Five Points East Nashville).

Starting at 8AM with prayer and perspective, those who volunteer will spend about 2 hours bagging wide variety of groceries. At the same time, people in need of groceries start to queue up to receive groceries. Around 10AM, volunteers "shop" with those who need food to fill a cart full of groceries to feed these families, and will "deliver" the groceries to the trunks of their cars. Volunteers who are also in need themselves can participate in the Food Giveaway.

It is an amazing sight to see. While I have included a picture from our May 2 Food Giveaway here, you can't truly appreciate this outpouring of service without participating. Hope to see you there!