Pause for Thought - October 2025
When you reap the harvest of your land, do not reap to the very edges of your field
or gather the gleanings of your harvest.’ (Leviticus 23:22)
The apple tree in my garden has produced an abundance of fruit this year, far more than my family could consume ourselves, however as I write this a lot of them are lying on the ground after Storm Amy forced its way across Galloway!
An abundance of produce is a happy sight for those who grow to sell, whilst creating a dilemma of abundance for those who grow to store and eat later. This month our churches will be full of those wonderful signs of the abundance of harvest as we celebrate our Harvest Festivals and give thanks to God for the gifts He freely gives to us.
Yet, as we give thanks, we know that so many people in our world are experiencing not just a shortage of food, but in some parts, extreme starvation. Which is why our God of bounty implores us to share what we have. ‘When you reap the harvest of your land, do not reap to the very edges of your field or gather the gleanings of your harvest.’ (Leviticus 23:22)
It was principal that sought to ensure there was always something available for the poor, for those without the means of supporting themselves when the harvest was collected. A principal that said there should be some left for the poor to come to gather or glean.
Yet it’s a timeless message, because whilst this scripture was written thousands of years ago, the process of gleaning is still in operation and needed just as much in today’s world. It’s a principle that addresses food poverty, allowing globally for crops and food to be used efficiently, avoiding the negative impact of food waste.
But also locally, many of us offer out of our own abundance to the Stewartry Food Bank, a service that covers this part of Galloway. Food banks are an essential service for anyone who, for whatever reason, can’t afford to buy food for themselves or their family. Food banks are dependent on the generosity and support of individuals like us. But thankfully now supermarkets have also realised the importance of gleaning, and so many of them donate food that is left over at the end of the day, allowing people to benefit from that food for free instead of it being thrown away.
Many of us will have benefitted from the support of others at some time during our lives, and as we celebrate Harvest together, it’s a time to remember that God has provided us with all good things, things to grow, harvest and share. And we are all truly blessed when we do so with the generosity and love that has been given to us.
If you live around Kirkcudbright or Gatehouse of Fleet and find yourself in need of a helping hand to put food on your table, don’t hesitate to give the food bank a call on 07387 658177. You will not be judged or means tested, simply offered what you need to get you through the week, out of the generosity of those who at this time have more than they need.
May this harvest season be one of plenty for all God’s children around the world.
Revd Alison
Priest in Charge