I brought these flowers (beautifully assembled by my friend Sue Lamberti, co-owner of the new and booming Cambridge Flower Shop, this afternoon. Sarah and the volunteers are planning a neat Christmas party with gifts for the customers and their families; I thought it might be nice to have a beautiful bouquet when the pantry opens for business at 11 a.m.

The bouquet was so large  Maria had to help me carry it in. I asked Sue if she had lost money on it. She shook her head no, but her eyes said yes. Thanks, Sue. You went out for a friend and a good community cause.

Sarah was shocked and spoke for a minute or two. I know she will love having this bouquet by the entry. Everyone who comes in need of food will see it.  I’ll stop by before the customers arrive; the pantry has a Santa, an elf, and a Misses Claus waiting for them. I won’t take any photos; their privacy is essential, and I will never take pictures of those who come for food.

Working for Sarah is both a pleasure and a joy. She and I work beautifully together; I doubt she knows how much it means to me. Merry Christmas, Sarah; you do the actual work of Christmas and the real work of Jesus Christ. I’m not sure how Jon Katz fit into it, but I have never felt more comfortable or belonged at any place where I’ve worked as much as I feel comfortable working for Sarah.

She has what one woman I know calls a “Jesus Heart.” She lives the duty Christ called for on the Mount.

For me, God lives in the food pantry. I wish them all – you too – a wonderful Christmas.