Lately I’ve given a good deal of thought about our hearts. The Bible has a lot to say about the condition of our hearts. Several of us may have been told at one time or another that we are wearing our hearts on our sleeve. We may have even been accused of making decisions with our hearts and not our minds. Why is that? Is that even possible? As a Christian, I ponder what that type of sentiment means. As a leader in urban ministry, many people have asked about what’s on my mind but few inquire of my heart. Perhaps we’ve come to believe that mind and heart are reconciled within the mature believer but that’s not what the Bible says. Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ instructs us in Mark 12:30 to “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.” If our Lord takes the time to make the distinction between mind and heart, we had better pay attention and not deny the obvious. “…Serve him with wholehearted devotion and with a willing mind, for the Lord searches every heart and understands every motive behind the thoughts” (1 Chron. 28:9).

As the Thanksgiving season approaches, what are the conversations of your mind and heart? Over the years you’ve read or heard the many requests to help those in need. There is little doubt that you’ve been reminded that you have been blessed to be a blessing. But consider this; what opportunity have you been given to express the sentiments of your mind and heart? What is it that God is calling you to do for the first time or differently this year? What if this is your last opportunity to serve? “The Lord does not look at the things man looks at. Man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart” (1 Samuel 16:7b).

I believe Thanksgiving is as much about you as it is about those we are called to serve. Star of Hope Ministries is extending an opportunity for you to express your heart this Thanksgiving. What is it that you seek? It really is at the heart of the matter and a matter of the heart! This year the ministry staff and I need to see and experience the Church in a very personal way. Yes, people are hungry; old and young alike…are hungry for food and godly relationships. They are also afraid of being abandoned once their bellies are full. Will you join us as we serve in the name of Jesus? Will you give out of your faith and your need? Are you able, with the grace of God, to reach beyond your own experience to what Christ desires? We need your help. Please volunteer your time in helping us to pack food boxes. We need your prayers, and we need your money as the needs of the poor are overwhelming.

Thanks for giving!

God bless you ,

Wanda M. Tugman
Executive Director