Compassion in Action: Building Community Together

Devotional

Day 1: See the Need, Meet the Need

A core value expressed throughout the ministry is the commitment to truly see the needs of individuals and respond with practical, compassionate action. Rather than assuming what people require, the approach is to listen, ask, and then address the specific needs that are voiced. This philosophy has shaped the programs and outreach, ensuring that help is not just offered, but is meaningful and timely for each person or family. When we open our eyes and hearts to the real needs around us, we become instruments of God’s love, meeting people where they are and helping them move forward with dignity. [17:47]

Matthew 25:35-40 (ESV)
"For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me, I was naked and you clothed me, I was sick and you visited me, I was in prison and you came to me.’ Then the righteous will answer him, saying, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you drink? And when did we see you a stranger and welcome you, or naked and clothe you? And when did we see you sick or in prison and visit you?’ And the King will answer them, ‘Truly, I say to you, as you did it to one of the least of these my brothers, you did it to me.’"

Reflection: Who in your community or daily life is expressing a need—spoken or unspoken—that you can notice and respond to today with practical care?

Day 2: Compassion with Dignity

Meeting needs is not just about providing resources, but about how those resources are given—with compassion, respect, and a commitment to preserving the dignity of every person. The ministry’s work is remembered not only for the emergency care provided, but for the way people are treated: with genuine kindness, understanding, and honor. When people are lifted up with dignity, they are empowered to move forward, regain stability, and feel valued as members of the community. This approach reflects the heart of Christ, who saw each person’s worth and treated them accordingly. [29:03]

Galatians 6:2 (ESV)
"Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ."

Reflection: How can you intentionally show respect and preserve the dignity of someone you serve or encounter today, especially if they are in a vulnerable situation?

Day 3: The Power of Community

While individual acts of kindness matter, lasting change and support often come through the collective effort of a caring community. The story of building the new food bank desk, which required the skills, time, and dedication of many people, illustrates how much more can be accomplished together. Each person’s contribution—no matter how small—adds up to something significant, and together, communities can create spaces of hope, stability, and transformation for those in need. [55:19]

Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 (ESV)
"Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their toil. For if they fall, one will lift up his fellow. But woe to him who is alone when he falls and has not another to lift him up!"

Reflection: What is one way you can join with others this week—through your church, neighborhood, or another group—to make a greater impact than you could alone?

Day 4: Small Acts Make a Big Difference

The “starfish story” shared in the message reminds us that even when the needs seem overwhelming, every small act of kindness matters to the one who receives it. Helping one person, providing one meal, or offering one word of encouragement can change a life. We may not be able to solve every problem, but we are called to do what we can, trusting that God multiplies our efforts and that every act of love counts. [53:59]

John 6:9-13 (ESV)
"There is a boy here who has five barley loaves and two fish, but what are they for so many?” Jesus said, “Have the people sit down.” Now there was much grass in the place. So the men sat down, about five thousand in number. Jesus then took the loaves, and when he had given thanks, he distributed them to those who were seated. So also the fish, as much as they wanted. And when they had eaten their fill, he told his disciples, “Gather up the leftover fragments, that nothing may be lost.” So they gathered them up and filled twelve baskets with fragments from the five barley loaves left by those who had eaten."

Reflection: What is one small, specific act of kindness you can do today, trusting that it will make a difference to someone?

Day 5: Embracing Change as Opportunity

Change can be challenging, especially when it means adapting to new circumstances or losing familiar resources. Yet, the ministry’s story shows that with every change comes the opportunity to grow, innovate, and invite others into the work. By remaining open to new ways of serving and by seeking support from the wider community, the mission continues and even flourishes. When we face transitions with hope and creativity, we discover new possibilities for service and impact. [37:52]

Isaiah 43:19 (ESV)
"Behold, I am doing a new thing; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it? I will make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert."

Reflection: Where are you experiencing change or uncertainty right now, and how might God be inviting you to see it as an opportunity to serve or grow in a new way?

Sermon Summary

Today’s gathering was a celebration of partnership, compassion, and the ongoing work of meeting real needs in our community. We reflected on the long-standing relationship between our church and La Puente, a ministry that has faithfully served the San Luis Valley for decades. Through stories, updates, and shared memories, we saw how the philosophy of “see the need, meet the need” has shaped the way we respond to those experiencing homelessness, hunger, and crisis.

La Puente’s journey began with a simple desire to help those who had nowhere else to turn. Over the years, the ministry has grown from a rural homeless shelter into a network of services: food pantries, children’s trauma programs, street outreach, and crisis prevention. The heart of this work is not just providing resources, but offering dignity, stability, and hope. We heard about the creative ways La Puente has adapted—especially during the pandemic—by bringing services directly to people, repurposing buildings, and expanding food access to hundreds more families.

The stories shared reminded us that every act of service, no matter how small, can make a profound difference. Whether it’s a child finding her voice through art, a mother stabilizing her family after a crisis, or a neighbor receiving a warm meal and a shower before a job interview, these moments of care ripple outward. The work is not just about meeting physical needs, but about restoring self-worth and building community.

We also acknowledged the challenges ahead. Changes in funding and volunteer support mean that the ministry must adapt once again, relying more on local partnerships and the creativity of those who care. Yet, with every challenge comes opportunity: to step up, to serve, and to be part of something larger than ourselves. The invitation is open for each of us to use our gifts—whether in cooking, maintenance, or simply offering a listening ear—to continue this legacy of compassion.

As we look to the future, we are reminded that making a difference often happens one person at a time, but lasting change is built together. Our shared commitment, rooted in God’s love, ensures that no one is left behind and that hope continues to grow in our valley.

Key Takeaways

1. Compassion is most powerful when it is personal and dignifying. Meeting someone’s immediate need is important, but the way we do it—offering respect, listening, and affirming their worth—can be just as transformative as the help itself. True service restores dignity and invites people to see themselves as valued and capable of new beginnings. [29:03]
2. Adaptability is essential in ministry and life. When circumstances change—whether through a pandemic, loss of funding, or shifting community needs—our willingness to innovate and respond creatively allows us to keep serving effectively. God often opens new doors when old ones close, inviting us to trust and participate in new ways of caring for others. [18:23]
3. The needs of children in crisis require special attention and trauma-informed care. When children experience instability, hunger, or trauma, they need more than just material support; they need safe relationships and opportunities to build resilience. Investing in their healing and growth is an investment in the future of our whole community. [30:07]
4. Every act of service, no matter how small, matters deeply. The story of the starfish reminds us that while we cannot solve every problem, we can make a world of difference for the one person in front of us. Faithfulness in small things is the foundation of lasting impact and is at the heart of God’s kingdom work. [53:40]
5. Community is built through shared effort and mutual support. While individual acts are powerful, real transformation happens when people come together—each offering their unique gifts—to build something greater than themselves. Our partnerships, both within the church and with organizations like La Puente, are vital for sustaining hope and meeting the complex needs of our neighbors. [55:02]

Youtube Chapters

[00:00] - Welcome
[00:44] - Opening Greetings and Introductions
[07:39] - Overcoming Technical Difficulties
[08:31] - La Puente: History of Partnership
[11:51] - The Unique Needs of the San Luis Valley
[13:36] - La Puente’s Mission and Programs
[17:29] - Consistency of Care: “See the Need, Meet the Need”
[18:23] - Adapting Through COVID and Change
[21:21] - Expanding Food Access and Community Impact
[24:40] - Philosophy of Service and Compassion
[26:13] - Stories of Crisis and Stability
[29:21] - Children’s Trauma and the PALS Program
[32:25] - Food Distribution and Community Partnerships
[35:10] - Facing New Challenges and Opportunities
[38:42] - The Call for Volunteers and Community Support
[41:33] - Celebrating 40 Years of Service
[44:34] - Practical Ways to Support La Puente
[47:42] - The Power of Dignity and Transformation
[53:40] - The Starfish Story: Making a Difference
[55:02] - Building Together: The Power of Community
[57:39] - Looking Forward with Hope and Gratitude
[58:47] - Closing Blessing and Mother’s Day Wishes

Bible Study Guide

Bible Reading

Matthew 25:34-40 — _“Then the King will say to those on his right, ‘Come, you who are blessed by my Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world. For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.’ ... ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.’”_

2. Galatians 6:2
_“Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.”_

3. James 2:14-17
_“What good is it, my brothers and sisters, if someone claims to have faith but has no deeds? Can such faith save them? Suppose a brother or a sister is without clothes and daily food. If one of you says to them, ‘Go in peace; keep warm and well fed,’ but does nothing about their physical needs, what good is it? In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead.”_

Observation Questions

What are some of the specific needs that La Puente has responded to in the San Luis Valley over the years? (see [14:09] and [15:00])
According to the sermon, how did La Puente adapt its services during the COVID pandemic? (see [18:23])
What is the philosophy that guides La Puente’s work, and how is it described in the sermon? (see [24:40])
What are some ways the ministry has tried to restore dignity to those they serve? (see [29:03] and [48:22])

Interpretation Questions

Why does the sermon emphasize not just meeting physical needs, but also offering dignity and hope? How does this connect to Jesus’ teaching in Matthew 25? (see [29:03])
The sermon mentions that every act of service, no matter how small, matters deeply. How does the “starfish story” illustrate this point? (see [53:40])
What does it mean for a church or ministry to be adaptable? Why is adaptability important for serving others, especially in times of crisis or change? (see [18:23] and [35:10])
The needs of children in crisis are highlighted as requiring special attention. Why is trauma-informed care important for children, and how does this reflect God’s heart? (see [30:07])

Application Questions

The sermon says, “Compassion is most powerful when it is personal and dignifying.” Think of a time when someone met a need in your life in a way that made you feel valued. How can you offer that same kind of compassion to someone this week? (see [29:03])
La Puente had to adapt quickly during the pandemic and with changes in funding. Are there areas in your life or in our church where you sense God is calling you to be more flexible or creative in serving others? What might that look like? (see [18:23] and [35:10])
The ministry invests in children who have experienced trauma, not just by giving them things, but by building relationships and affirming their worth. Is there a child or young person in your life who needs encouragement or support? What is one step you could take to invest in their healing or growth? (see [30:07])
The “starfish story” reminds us that we can’t fix everything, but we can make a difference for one person. Who is one person God might be putting on your heart to serve or encourage this week? What is one small, practical thing you could do for them? (see [53:40])
The sermon invites everyone to use their unique gifts—cooking, maintenance, listening, etc.—to serve. What is one gift or skill you have that you could offer to help meet needs in our community or church? (see [38:08])
The sermon talks about building community through shared effort. Are there ways you could partner with others—inside or outside the church—to make a bigger impact than you could alone? What might that partnership look like? (see [55:02])
Sometimes, serving others can feel overwhelming or discouraging, especially when needs are great. What helps you stay motivated to serve faithfully, even when you can’t see immediate results? (see [53:40])

Sermon Clips

We were, if not the first, certainly one of the first rural homeless shelters. Realtor Jack Chman was a founding member of Laente Homeless Shelter nearly 40 years ago. Today, that shelter is part of a broad range of services aimed at helping the poor in Colorado's sprawling St. Louis Valley. [00:13:36]

Last year, the plante home served over 16,000 individuals. That represents onethird of our population. The reality is that in Valley, one in four folks suffer um from hunger and they don't know where their next meal is going to come from. [00:14:12]

We have wraparound services where we work on anything from employment to furthering education um and really helping people be successful in their own lives. It was very important to me and my family. we were able to get back on our feet. [00:14:45]

What we do at PALS is really empower them to live the life they should be able to live. I don't have any other support down here. So, yeah, I don't know where I'd be without. [00:15:19]

One of the challenges is to try to to serve an area this size. So, what our roll outreach program really does is it's one thing. It drives down the dirt roads that exist for miles and miles. We are in what is known as the flats delivering wood. [00:15:37]

As you see people grow out of homelessness, it energizes you to continue to uh to do it. It's not hard to be committed to something that you believe in. [00:16:37]

But whether it's from a year ago or 16 years ago, what I have found with all the videos that we have is there is a consistency of care and there's consistency of trying to reach out to people and making a difference in people's lives. [00:17:37]

And part of that is a philosophy of see the need, meet the need. and how we go about reaching out to people who are reaching out to us and saying, "Hey, I need help." And a lot of times people think that it's just we're gathering in people off the streets. [00:17:57]

So between those particular aspects that's where we provided our ADA program which reaches out to people who are reveloping the skills and the abilities to maintain a home to maintain family to make their lives stable again. [00:25:36]

What lente sometimes does is offer a third option and offers another way for people to get from their crisis into stability because once their lives are stable, a lot of times there are folks whose lives just pick up right where they left off and they're able to continue to move on. [00:28:16]

And that's what's really remembered is that not only do they receive the emergency care they need, but they receive it with dignity and they receive it with passion and compassion. [00:29:00]

And so, children who have traumatic situations need the support. And so, we go we go on and we provide that for them through the PALS program. It's now a citywide program, referral through the schools a lot of times, but referral from private individuals. [00:30:02]

Within that program, they teach children about their skills. And what they do is they build on the skills first that they already have. you know, this one little girl would not say pretty much anything to anybody, but uh when something didn't go her way, you know, there was throwing stuff and there was a temper tantrum. [00:30:45]

So, we go ahead and provide caring for that. And so, we continue to build and build and build. And then, of course, when CO came, that's when our street outreach came. And um so we've got a lot of years of opportunities to really say to folks we are here and the most important thing we do is listen to the individuals who come to us and who help us and who give us the support and the strength to do things. [00:34:31]

It's more than just providing services. It's providing compassion. It's providing understanding. It's providing dignity. and how we lift the people up in that dignity is is the essence of what we do and it's the foundation of what we do is to provide dignity to individuals coming in. [00:48:19]

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