On Saturday, Jerry and Priscilla invited our Going Beyond team to help serve a barbeque meal to the homeless in Dallas. They’ve gotten to know John and Suzanne Wallace, who run Compassion House in the downtown area, and are inspired by their ministry to the poor and the young in this city. Every third Saturday, the Wallace’s and a group of volunteers provide food, clothing, hugs and compassion to whoever needs it. Their heart for people is obvious: they live it and breathe it by living right alonside the folks they serve.
I was excited to see that Jackson and Jerry Jr. had come along to work with their mom and dad, so I snapped a few photos:
Cutting pound cake for dessert. Plastic gloves make you feel so professional! Gift bags for the guests are filled and ready behind them.
Jackson helps Priscilla sort clothing. There was an awesome pile of warm coats and sweaters.
Getting the food line ready. Between 75-300 people are served each 3rd Saturday.
Two of the friendliest fork hander-outers you’ll ever meet.
Jerry was in The Zone: serving up delicious BBQ and worshipping on his ipod. Jackson and Jerry Jr. moved from the fork department to the bun department.
Linnae and I (with friend, Kristin) were on the Hug Line. Every guest got hugged – well and often – as they headed toward the plates.
John Wallace said this, “At Christmas we celebrate that God gave us His Son. Our BBQ is the demonstration of that giving heart of our Father. We desire at this BBQ to bring the presence and power of a relational God to our guests.”
I’m pretty sure that the guests were blessed by His presence, but the the true blessing came in serving them. Thanks, Compassion House, for letting us be part of your ministry!
Rachel
