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CONLEY COMMENTARY (WSAU) – The foodshare crisis from the government shutdown has reminded me of something. Not once during his earthly ministry did Jesus calculate the cost of helping someone in need.
At church last Sunday (and the foodshare lapse was only one day old then) our congregation was told if you need help with food, see one of the church’s leaders and we will help you. Our church distributes expired bakery items that are donated from a local grocery store each week, and we have a small food pantry in our back room. Those things are always available to anyone who needs them.
Not having SNAP cards reloaded is different.
And on Monday, our pastor posted a message on his social media account. It was to the community in general, not just to church members. “If you need help with groceries, send me a private message and you will be helped.”
My first reaction was: “Yaou, that could get expensive!” We have no idea how much need is out there. I’m the church treasurer. I know exactly how much is in our bank account.
Well, shame on me. Not once did Jesus say “sorry, you’re not part of my tribe… I can’t help you.” Nor did He ever say “helping is too expensive.” The leader of my church is perfectly following Christ’s example in offering help to everyone. A foodshare crisis is exactly why a church keeps money on hand. If our accounts were drained, God will still provide for his holy church and for people in need.
I’ve re-learned an important message God’s purse is open to everyone. And it is never empty.
Chris Conley
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