State must not neglect our ‘lambs’

I’m a Christian minister, and that means that I’m in the business of feeding people. Our fellowship around God’s table in worship extends to potluck meals and bereavement casseroles, and groceries for new parents. At St. Paul’s in McMinn County, we have taken the vision of being nourished by God through tangible food and drink further. Starting with a weekly free meal and expanding into Table Graces Food Pantry, our parish, along with countless community partners and volunteers, feeds hundreds of households every week. In the resurrection story of John 21, Jesus told Peter on the beach: “feed my lambs; take care of my sheep; feed my sheep.” I am called to feed God’s sheep — in body and spirit.

So I was alarmed when the news came that leaders in the Tennessee legislature have appointed a panel to determine whether our state can reject $1.8 billion in federal funding for education, which pays for free and reduced lunch programs in our public schools.

Research has shown that not only are many children across the state receiving the bulk of their caloric intake through school breakfast and lunch, but that these free food programs have significant positive impact on educational outcomes. We do not have to allow hunger to win — this is a conscious choice. Tennessee can accept or refuse the help that we need to continue feeding our children.

Just as the Apostle Paul wrote to the church in Corinth, one part of the body cannot say to another, “I have no need of you,” our leaders cannot say from their places of privilege and satiation, “I have no care for your hunger.” These are our children. They are all our children, and they are hungry. Will we feed these lambs?

Claire Brown