Following a First40Day experience, especially one that emphasized living the Gospel and compassion, it made sense that we would be moved to do something to make someone else’s life a little better. It actually would lead to many other ideas for outreach.

A lifestyle of prayer was leading us to a lifestyle of living the Gospel.

For example, how many times have we driven by a homeless person holding up a sign for help at an intersection, and just kept going? Many of us have done it more times than we feel comfortable admitting.

Ever wish you could do more? Ever felt that sinking feeling that you might be missing an opportunity to show Christ or make a difference in someone’s life? You may be wondering: what can I do to make an impact for this person who has overwhelming needs?

To live the Gospel means starting where we can- even in a seemingly minuscule way.

Let’s come together to serve our local community wherever we are meeting as a House of Prayer.

Here’s an idea for a mini-starter care bag (in our case, we will be using large ziplock bags) that we put together and given out to prayer ministry participants. When they notice someone in need or a homeless person, they will have something to give out to him or her.  The starter will contain:

-a water bottle,
-snack bar and
-notes with a prayer and Scripture.

When the people attending HoPE receive these bags, invite them to fill them with whatever everyday items they wish, things that we may take for granted, but for someone who has nothing, can make a world of difference.

Here is a suggested list of things that could be added to the starter care bag:

Cereal or granola bar *(provided)
Wet Wipes
Toothbrush/toothpaste
Water bottle (provided)
Mints/gum
Kleenex –
Chapstick
mini-emergency kit

(*Avoid making or purchasing bars with chocolate or caramel bits. These melt!)

As a variation and as time permits, you and your team may decide to have invite people to bring in one or all of the items listed above every time you gather. During the last day of your 4o days of prayer,line up bags and content to have people pick up and fill up a bag in an assembly line: everyone will  leave with a care bag to keep and give out to a person in need.

Another suggestion: as you end your First 40 Days of Prayer , designate the last week or a day in the last week of the 40days to assemble these bags as a praying community and each taking one before you leave.

Thanks for helping spread God’s love and for sharing HoPE.

How have you seen the Gospel come alive in your community or in your life through sharing or acts of kindness? What are ways in which you combine your prayer ministry with reaching out to your local community?