Meeting Each Others Needs

Read: 1 Corinthians 16:1-18

There have been many stories recently of people helping others and looking out for each other’s needs.  These are wonderful to hear.  One of those stories includes Ireland and some Native American people.  It starts back in 1847 when some 60,000 Native Americans heard about the Great Famine that was taking place in the country of Ireland across the Atlantic Ocean.  Even though they had recently undergone forced relocation along the Trail of Tears, they joined together to raise around $5,000 to send to the Irish people.

Now, 173 years later during this world pandemic, World digital news reports that the Irish people are returning the favor.  They originally setup a GoFundMe page for the Navajo and Hopi reservations in hopes of raising $2 million to help them with food, water, and personal protective equipment.  The goal has recently been raised to $5 million, and almost $4 million has already been raised.  Not even a vast ocean can stop people from helping to meet each others needs.

In 1st Corinthians 16 the apostle Paul encourages similar generosity for the needy people in Jerusalem.  He encourages the Galatian churches to set aside a sum of money each week to send as a gift to the people of Jerusalem.  There was no GoFundMe page to give to but Paul collected their gifts and later delivered them to the believers in Jerusalem.  Another great example of meeting each other’s needs.  Let’s continue to do that ourselves during this difficult time for many.

Make it Personal:  Who, how, and in what way is the Lord speaking to you this week about reaching out to others and meeting their needs?  The options and opportunities are endless but with a caring spirit and the example of Jesus we all can make a difference in our church, community, and world.

 Have a great week,  Glen Rhodes