During these challenging (to say the least) economic times, how do we keep strong? What does our faith say about
times of crisis? Where is the hope?
I recently read an article by Brad Powell (Keeping Outreach in the Midst of Crisis) that made me reflect upon
the power and purpose of faith in times such as these. Brad identified some basic reminders and truths about
our faith and God's continued promises.
First, we need to remember that God is in control. We might respond, "really?" Well, the challenge is to understand
that things happen in our lives that don't fit our personal hopes and dreams. Remember, we are not alone. Things
happen in life that don't fit God's hopes and dreams for his children as well. People make choices that do not
reflect God's love and purpose. So, the real question for us is, "what do we do with what we have?" Can we be
faithful to God's call to love, serve, forgive, and live abundantly without a sound economy? What are we going to
do with what we have, or don't have?
Remember that God did some of His greatest work in the midst of crisis (parting of the Red Sea, feeding the 5,000,
calming the storm, and bringing life out of death). Focusing on that truth can help us to maintain an optimistic and
innovative force in our lives. Doesn't crisis reveal our need for depending on God's sustain Holy Spirit in our lives?
Second, and this is a hard one, remember that power of crisis to open up people to their need for God. Let's face it,
when times are good, our tendency is to be a bit self-indulgent and have this perception that we are in control.
When crisis comes, our openness to God's purpose for our lives is heightened.
I am reminded of the song by TobyMac, "Lose My Soul." Check it out at
http://changeourhearts.wordpress.com/2008/07/17/i-dont-want-to-gain-the-whole-world-and-lose-my-soul/ ,
and notice the returning theme, "I don't want to gain the whole world and lose my soul." (see Mark 8:36 and Luke 9:25)
I guess when the world is gone, what do we have left? Crisis can be a time of cleansing…are there gods in my life
that can never give me the hope and love that comes from God in Jesus Christ?
Third, there is a challenge for the church to reach out to the community with more passion and compassion than
at any other time. This is not a time to cast judgment, but to offer the faith, hope and love of Christ. The church
must evaluate its budget for effectiveness versus convenience, compassion and care verses "church stuff."
I have a saying that I have used for years in my life and ministry, "Every Crisis is a cause for Christ."
I believe this to be true for all of us. What cause is God working in your life? If you would like a community
of faith to walk with you during this time of crisis, please consider joining us at the River. We believe that you
can find God's cause for you.
At Sugar River UMC we are committed to providing a community where relationships are the essence of faith.
Jesus summed it all up by saying, love God and love people. We are also committed to help you grow in your
relationship to God and others through small groups Bible studies. And finally, we are committed to help your
relationship to God and others through serving to help alleviate suffering in the world. Join us at the River
as we connect, grow, and serve in our relationship to God and others. A faith community is a critical place
to be when we must face crisis…let's not do it alone.
Sunday morning worship times: 8:30 and 10:15 AM.
Small groups and service opportunities throughout the week.
