Monday, March 14, 2011

Share God's Gifts

If anyone has material possessions and sees his brother in need but has no pity on him, how can the love of God be in him? -- 1 John 3:17

President Obama had barely got the offer from his mouth before the criticism started. We couldn't afford to help Japan as it deals with the devastating effects of an earthquake and tsunami. We need to take care of our own people. Let someone else step forward and help.

I guess I'll never understand such a lack of compassion. Yeah, I know. We've got financial issues in this country. And, yes, I'm aware that there are many, many people in need in this country. I also know we waste a great deal of money, both individually and as a nation. God has provided enough. We just don't always use what He's given us wisely.

We have plenty to help people who have nothing left. We can afford to send recovery teams to help search for survivors. We can afford to send experts to help with nuclear reactor issues. We can afford to send doctors and nurses and medical supplies. And we can afford to send food and basic supplies to people who have lost homes, jobs and possibly family and friends all in one instant.

It's not just about the money. It's about the caring. It's about sharing what you have with someone who is in need. It's about kindness and compassion. It's about showing the world that Jesus lives in the United States of America.

We hear a lot of talk about how this country isn't the Christian nation it once was. There's a lot of finger pointing and blame bandied about. No one wants to take a hard look in the mirror. We're suppose to reflect Jesus to the world and here we are complaining about sharing the material possessions he's given us with people who really, truly need them. We're the ones shoving Jesus out of our country. And we claim to be Christians!

Do you love Jesus? Then stop hoarding His gifts and share them with people in need.