A government initiative encouraging supermarkets to reduce their levels of waste was announced last week. The bargain offers such as two for the price of one are being actively discouraged as they are the main reason that families on average waste an estimated £700 a year on food that is eventually binned. In most cases it’s because we are being nudged into falling for these bargain offers which is adding to food waste and is becoming a major issue in most developed countries. It’s no wonder that if a recent report is to be believed we actually throw away about a third of what we buy – that’s quite a lot of food, much I suspect we put in the trolley on the spur of the moment when offers like that seem irresistible.
The saying ‘waste not want not’ remains sound advice and which can make a real difference. Did I really need those extra items that ended up in the bin? of course not. What’s the advantage of something it its half price and eventually becomes a mouldy mass in the fridge? Perhaps the money could have been better spent as a gift to those in greatest need within our community especially when we hear of more families’ dependent on food banks than ever before. Even giving away those extras we get from those offers could make a difference in the lives of those who are struggling. To ignore the needs of others is to deny them even the possibility of a better tomorrow and of us never knowing what real joy there is in giving.
This week is Christian Aid week when churches of all denominations and none work together to raise money for those in greatest need in our world. Jesus gave new understanding as to what it means to be a good neighbour when he spoke of going the extra mile and of caring for those beyond our loved ones and friends. The Apostle Paul speaks of the eloquence excellence of men and of angles but if we are lacking in love for our neighbour then our preaching is like clanging bell or a noisy cymbal. So, whether it’s the family up the road who are struggling to make ends meet or communities in some parts of Africa who are crying out for our help – can we really pass by on the other side? Your local church/chapel is collecting this Christian Aid week to help those in need – Give them your support.
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