At our recent Feed the Need Missions Gala, Savannah, an 18-year-old volunteer, shared her heartfelt testimony of how God has been working in her life and the lives of others through her service at the Lexington site. Her journey of stepping out of her comfort zone to serve has not only impacted the community but has also strengthened her own faith in profound ways.
Savannah’s story began when she was just 12 years old, helping her family launch the LBA site. Even at a young age, she looked forward to serving each week despite long school days. What started as a family commitment grew into a deep personal calling for Savannah. Over the years, she witnessed firsthand how a simple meal and a warm welcome could bring hope and healing to those in need. “The very first time I showed up at LBA, I fell in love with the entire mission,” Savannah shared. She realized that the impact of Feed the Need goes far beyond a burger and a hot dog—it’s about building relationships and sharing God’s love.
One of the most meaningful relationships Savannah formed was with Miss Julie, a guest who started attending the Lexington site during a difficult time. Julie spoke in the video that was shared at the gala, saying, “When I first came up here, I was greeted by Savannah, and she has become a godsend to me. I keep coming back not just for the food, but mainly for my spiritual needs.”
Their relationship began with a simple conversation about Julie’s steering wheel cover that said, “Jesus, take the wheel.” From there, a deep connection grew. Julie shared her struggles with Savannah, who was initially hesitant to pray for her, feeling unqualified as a 17-year-old. “It was a lot to take in,” Savannah said in the video. “I had no idea what to do. I didn’t feel like I was the one meant to pray, and I thought no adult would want to listen to a little kid talk.” But as Julie continued to return and shared how her prayers were being answered, Savannah’s confidence grew. She began to see the power of prayer and how God was using her in ways she hadn’t expected.
Savannah’s humility and willingness to serve, despite her doubts, became a source of strength for both her and Julie. Julie shared how Savannah’s prayers and encouragement renewed her faith: “Savannah prayed over me and helped me by reinforcing God’s Word that there’s always hope, that all I have to do is ask for it, and so far, Savannah and God have not let me down.” Julie’s testimony shows how Feed the Need has not only met her physical needs but has also restored her faith and trust in God.
The transformation in Savannah’s own life has been equally profound. Dana, Savannah’s sister-in-law and fellow site leader, reflected on Savannah’s growth over the years, saying, “I’ve seen her go from, ‘I’m not doing that’ to going out on her own and building relationships.” Savannah’s willingness to get uncomfortable, take orders, and pray for guests is a powerful example of what God can do when we step out in faith.
For Savannah, serving at Feed the Need has been a journey of learning to trust that God can use anyone, regardless of age or experience. She was inspired by the verse in First Timothy 4:12: “Don’t let anyone think less of you because you are young. Be an example to all believers in what you say, in the way you live, in your love, your faith, and your purity.” That verse has given her the courage to step up, pray for guests, and witness the Lord at work in their lives.
Her challenge to us all is simple yet profound: take a leap of faith. Whether it’s praying for someone, offering a kind word, or simply showing up to serve, God can use each of us in unexpected and powerful ways. Savannah’s story reminds us that it’s often the smallest gestures, like complimenting a steering wheel cover, that opens the door to life-changing conversations and relationships.
We are so grateful for Savannah, Miss Julie, and all the volunteers who continue to serve with love, faith, and compassion each week. Their stories inspire us to step out of our comfort zones and trust that God is working through every prayer, every meal, and every conversation. As Savannah said, “Those pickles only get you so far.” Let’s all take that leap of faith and go the extra mile for Jesus.
