The Love of Christ on Display

(Post 1 of 5)

Not everything loving that Christ does is visible to us. For example, he is interceding for his own right now, and we don’t get to eavesdrop on the praying. But some of his love is displayed through his people. Displaying Christ’s love is one of the aims of the Good News Festival & Clinic (GNFC).

Some upcoming blog posts will provide a different glimpse of the GNFC—specifically the one that took place at Bethlehem’s Downtown Campus on October 29. Members from the GNFC team will describe what happened there.

The following is a guest post by Aaron Pikkarainen, Coordinator for the GNFC

What Is a Good News Festival & Clinic?

A Good News Festival & Clinic event offers about 10 different services/goods (which vary somewhat from event to event), along with a meal, to share the love of Christ in tangible ways. The centerpiece of each event is a gospel message. To date, Bethlehem has held three Good News Festival & Clinic events, two this summer at the 16/33 Center, and most recently at the Downtown Campus on October 29.

Some services offered include dental exams, nutrition counseling, financial and employment counseling, and prayer counselors. Guests also receive a free bag of hygiene items, a bag of groceries, and a hot meal. Younger guests can attend a children’s program. At the October Festival, the GFNC also included a room full of free clothing (donated by Hidden Treasures) where guests could help themselves.

Here’s what happened at just one volunteer's booth on October 29 ...

• 12 or so connected to the Employment Counseling table.
• All but one prayed and were humble before the Lord.
• One said this was the first time to pray to receive Christ.
• Most rededicated themselves to Christ.
• Many tears … God was present to comfort, love, and redeem.
• All received tips on the job search process … what works, what doesn’t.
• Many would like to plug into the monthly employment transitions meeting held at Bethlehem.

This was the testimony of Bethlehem member Don Hoffert as he reached out with the love of Christ in more ways than one at his employment counseling booth.

Perhaps you have a skill you could use to join in loving our neighbors for their eternal and earthly well-being? If so, please contact Aaron Pikkarainen.