I Am Stuck on Bandaids
Some people get ear worms. I get image worms stuck in my imagination. These linger until I can find an outlet to release them. So, you get this...
There was a conversation I had recently that put the image of bandaids in my head. Each Sunday the worship leaders gather before we start and pray for each other, for the service that is ahead of us, and that those attending will feel God’s presence and peace. On a recent cold Sunday, a prayer request was lifted for those who do not have warmth and shelter. Pastor Brian spoke about our need to quietly step into some of the gaps in extreme conditions. We would not normally help a person with overnight lodging, yet nights where the temperature dips below zero indicate it is necessary. There are many scripture passages that tell of Jesus healing as a part of his ministry on earth. He didn’t refer the hemorrhagic woman to a specialist or the blind man to the optometrist. He just healed them.
I have also heard many say we need to stop putting bandaids on problems and work on what is causing the problems in the first place. That is also true. Again I read from Scripture the call of the prophets against the things that keep people oppressed.
Have you ever noticed that most medical dramas are set in the Emergency Room? I guess they wouldn’t be dramas without the chaos we see fictionalized in these urgent care spaces. I find they do illuminate the need to stop the bleeding before further treatment can be administered. In shows like The Pitt, we don’t often see the follow up care someone receives after being stabilized by caring E.R. doctors and nurses.
My point is that Broadway lives in the gray areas and bridges the gap between the immediate need and a more long term fix. The Pastor’s fund can provide the bandaids to help someone with urgent need. For the after-care we are also a place where spiritual healing may come through time and grace. And, Broadway is committed to partnering with community organizations that are there to address specific needs whether they be quick fixes or places to find pathways to lifestyle changes.
Since last year, Broadway has committed to tithing (reserving 10%) of all we take in to help our community partners. Because of the financial gifts from the people of Broadway we were able to support four partners who help with food security (Care and Share); transitioning women from abusive environments and incarceration (The Upper Room), providing help with housing and utilities (Interfaith Response) and planting a before and after school care program for families of children with limitations (Council Bluffs Schools Foundation). Through all of these organizations you all were able to provide about $46,500 for extended care through our community. Broadway’s Pastor’s Fund was able to purchase over $8000 in bandaids.
And, don’t forget that through your special offerings we also provided support for the Community Project’s work of providing food security for those afraid to leave their homes. Our ‘Socktober’ and Winter Apparel collection provided socks, hats, mittens, and scarves for children through Longfellow and Rue Elementary schools. Your drop offs to the shopping cart helped supply the shelves at Care and Share and Philip’s Cupboard. Our doors are opened on Wednesday evenings to serve anyone who is hungry. With the help of the United Women in Faith school supplies were collected and given to local and global school children. I am also aware of the music ministry that quietly collected child friendly food for Longfellow Elementary so staff and families could grab something if needed. Our women’s Wednesday book study put together treats and notes of encouragement for teachers at their busiest times.
Look at all the good you have done through your gifts to and your presence at Broadway. And, there is still work to do.
It has been announced that Philip’s Cupboard is our first quarter partner for 2026. That means what we collect in January, February and March will be tithed and Philip’s Cupboard will receive that to help them continue their work. If you wish to do more and want to bring a tangible donation, they are in need of baby wipes, size 6 diapers, and laundry detergent. If you would like to know more about this non-food pantry, please take time to read Tim Johnson’s recent news post.
Thank you Broadway UMC and Peace,
Teresa