Matthew 25:34-39 (NIV) Come, you who are blessed by my Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world. For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.

Matthew 25:40 Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.

At New Hope Fellowship earlier this month, we launched the first ever pet food ministry while feeding our homeless clients. What a huge success! Everyone was so grateful and it really meant a lot to them. I spent most of my time with Jonathan (Jazz's dad). Jazz is a chihuahua min pin mix. Adorable! Jonathan was at the Fairfax County Animal Shelter earlier that day getting Jazz up to date on his shots. He told me about the kindness he was shown, and that Jazz was given a brand-new harness. He absolutely lit up when he saw our display of pet supplies. Jazz got food, treats, a leash, and a new squeaky toy. To quote Jonathan: "This has been a great day!" I’m not sure he can say that very often.

Jazz is all Jonathan has and he is his closest companion. You can tell instantly how much they love each other. Jazz is always hot on Jonathan’s heels and even leapt from my lap to his when I was holding him! He doesn’t like to be away from him. Jonathan cannot imagine life without him. Even though he lives in his car, Jonathan has recently secured employment, has a babysitter for Jazz while he is working, and is doing all he can to get himself back on track. It was an absolute pleasure getting to know Jonathan and Jazz, and his gratitude was contagious. Some of our other clients took food to give to some of the folks they know that have pets. I was so glad I took the time to hear Jonathan’s story. What a blessing it was for me to get to know this kind gentleman. This is an excellent example of the community coming together to help those less fortunate. It takes many partners to meet people where they are and I’m grateful to Centreville United Methodist Church, Pastor Windi and New Hope Fellowship, Pastor Rick and Christ Evangelical Lutheran Church, and Amanda at the Fairfax County Animal Shelter.

Matthew 22:37-39 (NIV) Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: Love your neighbor as yourself.