If you’ve been to a Packathon with Feed the Hunger and witnessed the entire process, you could probably tell me what your favorite part of the whole experience is. For some of you it may be packing around the stations. Others may prefer working with the warehouse crew. And some of you might really look forward to slapping labels on bags around the table. That’s the beautiful thing about a packing event—there is something for everyone. No matter how young or old, short or tall, weak or strong, there is always a job you can enjoy.
I’ve been attending these events as part of the FtH staff since 2011. Not a day goes by that I am not thankful for the opportunity I have to do this job and witness these events. I’ve had the chance to do every job possible at a Packathon. However, for me, my favorite memories occur in a three-minute window that comes and goes very quickly, but leaves a lasting impression.
We at Feed the Hunger believe that the louder and faster the music is, the louder and faster the packers work! Because of that, we always have a LOUD and LIVELY playlist picked out for Packathons. But, after five years of doing this, no matter what playlist is selected there is one song that almost always makes the list. About halfway through the event, there is a moment when the Christian Hip-Hop/Rock/Contemporary/Pop music stops and the great hymn “How Great Thou Art” comes rolling through the speakers. This moment is one of my favorite things to watch. This song is arguably one of the most popular hymns ever written, and no matter your age, race, or gender, 75% of the room knows the words. As the packing is going on and bags are being filled, weighed, and sealed, the entire room joins together in song and worships our great God and Savior. It is an incredible thing to see and hear.
I can remember standing near a grandfather and grandson during one event when the song came on. Separated by at least 40 years in age, they both stood side-by-side, working to feed hungry children and singing with all their might, “Then sings my soul, my Savior God, to Thee / How great Thou art / How great Thou art!” Together, they worshiped God with their actions and words. These moments are what make these events so special. It is incredible to see the body of Christ come together and work toward a singular goal, all the while honoring and glorifying God.
If you’ve never seen a room full of hairnet-wearing people pack food and sing “How Great Thou Art,” then add it to your bucket list and come serve at a Packathon. I promise you won’t regret it.
“Sing to the LORD, all the earth; proclaim his salvation day after day. Declare his glory among the nations, his marvelous deeds among all peoples. For great is the LORD and most worthy of praise; he is to be feared above all gods. For all the gods of the nations are idols, but the LORD made the heavens. Splendor and majesty are before him; strength and joy are in his dwelling place. Ascribe to the LORD, all you families of nations, ascribe to the LORD glory and strength. Ascribe to the LORD the glory due his name; bring an offering and come before him. Worship the LORD in the splendor of his holiness. Tremble before him, all the earth! The world is firmly established; it cannot be moved. Let the heavens rejoice, let the earth be glad; let them say among the nations, “The LORD reigns!”
1 Chronicles 16:23–31
Caleb Fox | Warehouse Manager