October 10, 2017 - - I Timothy 5:8 Caring for others

But if anyone does not provide for his own, and especially for those of his own household, he has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever.

I Timothy 5:8 NKJV

Recently there has been a spate of posts about refugees to Canada. There are comparisons of how much a refugee receives versus how much a life-long tax paying citizen receives and the citizen is shown to be wanting. Leaving aside the whole issue of our porous borders, there are some things worth noting, about the refugees who come under Canada's policies of resettlement.

A refugee has no other financial resources.

Usually a Canadian citizen has family.

A refugee has no community to draw from for help.

A Canadian has a neighbourhood, peers, friends.

A refugee lacked health care for years, decades, maybe longer.

A Canadian benefited from the wonderful health care system.

Christians in particular are called to care for the vulnerable of society. And Christians begin by caring for the members of their own family and extended family and faith community. For a Christian the evidence of our faith is found in how we care for those in need.

God of all mercy and glory I confess knowing You is the greatest treasure of my life. Where I am able to help others out, by spending time, in using my talents, in giving of my treasures, let me give as freely as You have given to me. Where I am in need, let me be humble and grateful when others supply my need. Where needs go unmet, remind me again and again by Your Word, through prayer and the community of Christians, You, O God are my Shield and my very Great Reward. Increase my faith. Increase my desire and ability to serve You in Name of Jesus I pray. Amen.