These last two years I’ve seen the impact of the economy on countless friends all over the world. Many of my friends here in the United States are in the construction industry and are experiencing everything from lay-offs to salary cuts.
I was watching a NASCAR race this past Saturday and saw empty stands. Some cars circled the track with no visible sponsor painted on the hood. Everyone industry has been impacted in some way.
My pastor, Dr. Doug Varnado, was speaking in Haiti on a Mission Discovery mission trip a few weeks ago. He was speaking to a packed house for a Sunday service in Port au Prince, Haiti in a church near 7,000’ish people living in tents, refugees from the terrible earthquake that happen there in January. He said something I have not considered.
After a few words of greeting Doug said, “All over the world the economy is down. Today you suffer in Haiti like never before, not only is it harder financially in a place that was already difficult, but now you have lost your homes. Some of you lost family, and friends. It seems that things are down. But the “Kingdom of God” is up. Never in our recent history have there been so many people in need. People we can serve! The Kingdom of God is up, His economy looks excellent. This is our time as the body of Christ to serve the millions who suffer from loss! The economy is down, but the Kingdom is up!”
Shouts came from the packed building. It’s true, never has there been a time like this in my lifetime. Today can you give hope to someone who suffers?
Here’s an interesting verse from the New Testament. “For in hope we have been saved, but hope that is seen is not hope; for who hopes for what he already sees? But if we hope for what we do not see, with perseverance we wait eagerly for it.” (Romans 8:24-25)
I can’t wait to see what God will unfold for me today! In today’s journey I will look for the opportunity to encourage. And I know that along the way someone will encourage me as well. The economy is down, but now opportunities in the lives of others are up! Let’s love well today!
You can hear Doug speak at his church the week after his return where he talks more about Haiti by clicking here.
