As we move into 2011, one of the things that have been hot on our mind is community and its link to local food. How do we create a sense of ownership with our community when it comes to eating and buying food locally grown, and for that matter anything locally produced; whether it be soaps, baked goods, clothes, beverages (like organic teas or wines), canned goods and so on? How do we get our community to support local restaurants that buy locally grown foods and meats or businesses that buy from local producers? It starts with awareness and making it a priority to start somewhere.
It wasn't so long ago that these things we are trying to get back to were part of everyday life. Going into town to buy what you couldn't grow or make; knowing your neighbors and actually having conversations with them; helping a friend in need; waving to someone as you pass by. I believe it will only become more important as the times continue to change. The economy, which we've been told by the press and politicians is getting better, is not and seems to be getting worse. Gas is creeping back up and food costs are rising. How do you fix something so broken? You can't. So we shift our paradigm. We go local. We challenge our community to “rise up” and support locally owned businesses. We also need to lead by example. Connect with neighbors; getting more involved in church; getting to know God (not just know of Him); develop skills to grow and/or produce food on our own. Maybe its $10 dollars a week set aside for something locally produced or maybe volunteering your time. Start somewhere!
This leads me to a community event happening at our farm on January 29th, 2011. Our first annual Christian Crop Mob. Crop Mobs have been around for a long time. The thought is many hands equals’ quick work and great accomplishment. I believe this is a great time for the community to get together and see what farming is all about. We will also have a great time of fellowship and get to know one another. Phil Aud, who is our Music Minister at Trinity Fellowship, will be playing live music to help keep us moving. If you have never heard Phil, you’re in for a treat, because he can flat out play!
*If you can join us, don't forget to bring your gloves and shoes that you don't care get dirty. We will also need shovels and wheelbarrows for use during the event, if you have them.
The Ministry of Gardening....
On January 21st and 22nd, we will be teaching a two day class on "Gardening from the Ground Up" as a ministry at Senoia Vineyard Community Church. Pastor Brent Anderson, a dear friend, started the "Sow Good Garden" last year as a way to provide organically grown food for people in need. This season, a new ministry will be created to have those who feel lead, run the garden from start to finish. After all, this is what we are called to do. I can think of a few passages in the bible that deem it important for this ministry:
Proverbs 21:13 “Whoever closes his ear to the cry of the poor will himself call out and not be answered.”
Proverbs 28:27 “Whoever gives to the poor will not want, but he who hides his eyes will get many a curse.”
Psalms 41:1 “Blessed is the one who considers the poor! In the day of trouble the Lord delivers him”
Proverbs 19:17 “Whoever is generous to the poor lends to the Lord, and He will repay him for his deed”
This is a ministry that, over time, will hopefully encourage other churches that have land to adopt. What a great use of resources. Instead of paying someone to cut the church grass, be shepherds, and grow food for the sheep.
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