Rice and Beans Celebration of Hope

It is commonly known that most people in 3^rd world countries are far less fortunate than us. In fact, half of the world’s population lives on less than two dollars a day. These people are very poor and are not able to live, dress, or eat how we do. Did you know that the average person in Zimbabwe, Africa only eats the equivalent of about one cup of rice and beans a day? Perhaps you do know this, but have you experienced it?

            This week, in honor of the Celebration of Hope, members of Willow Creek Church have been challenged to change their diets for five days. A few students at Westminster have even accepted this challenge. In order to experience what people in poverty eat on a regular basis, we have only been drinking tap water, eating a small serving of oatmeal each morning, and having just a cup of rice and beans for lunch and dinner.

            So far, this experience has been tough, but also very eye-opening. It’s a lot harder than you might think to eat small portions of virtually flavorless food for each meal. Even though this food may not taste very good or fill you up, it’s a constant reminder of what other people truly go through every day.

Just remember, our short experience is on a small scale compared to what the poor go through constantly. Please pray for those participating in the weekly food challenge that they might grow from this experience, but especially pray for those who go through the reality of poverty each and every day.

 

By Brittany Booth