Soup Sampler

Asbury UMC had its annual soup sampler this past Saturday, February 15.  Our congregation worked together to make this annual event the successful and wonderful gathering of soups and people that the community looks forward to each year.  God is present at this gathering.  From the people who help ready the fellowship hall, the people who make and donate the food, the ladies who make sure every detail is in place, to the clean--up crew, and  those who come to enjoy the fellowship and the blessing this event brings, there is something special and different about this happening.  I beleive it is because God is really with us every time we have our "Soup Sampler."  There is a spirit in our fellowship hall that is felt.  Yes, of course, the food is delicious.  Did you ever know a Methodist congregation that couldn't cook? People come who would not necessarily be able to afford the $12.00 Roast Beef Dinner.  People come who aren't looking for the free meal; they want ot be a part of something.  There is something different about this.  You could feel the spirit; the whole "atmosphere" is filled with fun, laughter, fellowship, and warmth.  This reaches out to everyone.  It gives us the opportunity to invite people to come visit the Lord.  For example, this year, we had our littlie note on the tables saying:"Sampled our soup?  Come and sample our service."  Our Lord God gave us a beautiful sunny, cold day on Feb. 15th--good soup weather.  I think we honored Him by the joy and love present and shared by all.