Scripture
13 Share with the Lord’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality.
Reflection
After a conversation with his father, who is a pastor in South Carolina, about how many pastors were saying they didn’t think their churches could make it through the pandemic if people weren’t coming through their doors every Sunday, retired NFL Player Ben Watson joined an initiative called “Churches Helping Churches Challenge”, raising support to congregations located especially in low-income urban areas. The initiative encourages more stable churches to help those at-risk churches with financial or tangible resources.
In an interview, Ben said:
“As the body of Christ, we all suffer when one suffers. Many churches won’t make it through this. As believers, it’s our honor and duty to support one another. This initiative is a way we can do just that.”
I get it, though. You and I might not have the financial resources or fame status of a NFL player (what is NFL anyway?! Just kidding!). Yet, we are still called to share with the Lord’s people who are in need, to practice hospitality and to share our lives with others.
In 2 Corinthians 8, Paul talks about the Macedonian churches giving to the saints in Jerusalem:
“In the midst of a very severe trial, their overflowing joy and their extreme poverty welled up in rich generosity. 3 For I testify that they gave as much as they were able, and even beyond their ability. (…)
12 For if the willingness is there, the gift is acceptable according to what one has, not according to what one does not have.” 2 Corinthians 8:2-3,12
Thoughts for the day
- Have you been in a place where your needs were provided through the help of other believers?
- How did that feel?
- As you look around, do you know any brother or sister in Christ who is in need now?
- How can you respond to the call of today’s verse?
Prayer
Today, take a moment, wherever you are, to REJOICE in God’s goodness: Read a Bible passage or listen to a song that helps you to connect with God.
