I recently had the opportunity to take a few days away. It was lovely and oh-so-needed! The rest and rejuvenation reminded me (yet again!) of our faith practice of Sabbath – setting aside time to marvel at what God has created, and when we rest, we surrender to that creative love that sustains and builds us up. I was reminded that I can’t keep all the plates spinning all the time, after all – they are God’s plates, and God is not only a wicked-good plate spinner, but a plate creator and knows especially when to put the plates down and give it a rest.
Shobi’s Table just took a couple weeks off from lunch service, and did some administrative work inside. The first week was because it was so darn cold! The second was due to realizing we had a lot of paperwork to get done, and now was the time to do it. While I know it wasn’t actually a Sabbath (we were working!), it did cross my mind that it was a decision to set time aside for a different thing. I knew that we didn’t have the capacity to finish everything we needed to finish on top of our regular lunch service, and taking two cold weeks off when our numbers have been lower seemed like a good compromise. It was a move of trust, that God was still going to provide where there was need, and that we could take time now to tend to what would make for an even better spring and summer.
Bread is often the metaphor I use when I think of rest. After flour, water, yeast and salt is kneaded and stretched into a strong dough, it must be left to rest. As it rests, the “muscles” of gluten that have been built up, relax and allow the mass to catch the gas emitted from the yeast, and rise tall and strong. If the dough were just continually kneaded without this rest, the bread would be dense and flat – nothing like the soft, chewy stuff we love to slather butter on and build sandwiches with. To be our best, risen, strong selves – we have to take a break. We have to rest. We have to remember who is the agent behind our rising – God.
While you’re taking a break to read this, let me show you ways that God is strengthening and rising within Shobi’s Table! This spring we’re planning on adding a third serving day, and we need help from you to make that happen. Consider the following ways to help support the growth and rising of Shobi’s Table. You are part of our growing “glutinous” network that God is bringing forth! Take your time to rest, to consider, and then rise with us!
– Deacon Kari Alice Olsen
Ways to Support Shobi’s Table
Thrivent Action Team Grants to Support Shobi’s Table
Are you a Thrivent member? Did you know that every Thrivent member has access to two (count them, TWO!) Action Team Grants of $250 each? That’s $500 per member! The applications are simple, straightforward, and the money can go to great causes – such as Shobi’s Table! We can give you all the information you need to fill out the application and even help you fill out the reports afterwards.
Not a Thrivent member? No problem! If you sign up to be an Associate Member for $20, you can have access to two Action Team Grants too! Your $20 could turn into $500 for Shobi’s Table (and/or other excellent missional projects!)
Want more info? Check out the Thrivent website (Thrivent Action Teams)
and/or email shobistable@gmail.com and we’ll help get you set up!
Wish List
Did you know that Shobi’s Table has a Wish List? It’s a great, tangible way to help support this pay-as-you-can cafe ministry! We rent commercial space at Abundance Kitchen from the wonderful folks at Christ on Capitol Hill. Within that space, we’re always cooking up a storm, and are often looking for items to make our work more efficient, safe and a great volunteer experience! (You’ll see we’re looking for a commercial food processor… anyone?? We’d love you forever! Cause we already do.) We’re also looking for folks to donate compostable to-go materials so we can keep our commitment to being excellent environmental stewards.
Our website has all the info you’ll need – where to purchase things, what we’re looking for, how many, etc. Here’s the link: Shobi’s Table WISH LIST
Become a Sustaining Supporter
We are so grateful for all the donations we’ve been getting this past year! We wanted to make sure that you knew that you could also sign up to be a Sustaining Supporter of Shobi’s Table. When you do, we can get a better idea of how much is coming in and when, so that we can best budget and plan for this growing mobile cafe ministry. Click on the link below and choose “Make this a recurring donation”.
Donate Now to Shobi’s Table
Notes from the Board
Warm February greetings from the Shobi’s board of directors! I started on the board shortly after moving to the Twin Cities a year and half ago and work as a project manager for Lutheran World Relief in the fundraising department. Being on the board and attending regular meals has helped me learn about my neighbors and neighborhood.
At my first board meeting just over a year ago there were just four of us. When we gathered a few weeks ago via Zoom there were nine of us. A year ago there we were serving twice a month and 1.25 staff. In the coming year, we will have 2.25 staff and are preparing to serve on 3 days/week. All this in the year of a global pandemic.
I’ve had the privilege to attend many weekly meals and in all extremes of weather. I’ve witnessed how the gift of a warm cup of coffee on a blistering, cold day brings a welcome relief. Or a refreshing salad on a humid summer day is a simple joy. I’m thankful for these delicious, nutritious meals made with love. Each week it is a time to pause and be well fed. A place to gather and visit with friends while sharing a meal.
What a gift to support and watch this growing ministry.
That is why I decided to become a monthly donor. I want to help sustain this growth. I can’t wait to witness how increased staffing expands what Shobi’s table can do. I look forward to seeing another serving day and the people it can reach.
As we move towards Spring, I pray for the growth of this ministry and thank you for your continued support of our neighbors.
In Peace,
Lindsey Scheid