Tuesday July 29th, 2014 Acts 11:27-12:3
The disciples determined...each would send relief to the believers living in Judea... (verse 29)
Every day we hear news of some disaster in the world. It has always been so. Luke tells us that when the prophets came from Jerusalem to Antioch they predicted a famine all over the world. The disciples sent relief to their brothers and sisters in the badly affected areas as best they could.
In the past year we’ve had major floods here in Canada, putting people out of their homes. Wars have displaced thousands from Syria. Typhoon Haiyan killed many in the Philippines and many more remain homeless. In times of disaster, human-made or natural, the disciples of Jesus and caring non-believers donate money and goods to ease the pain of those affected.
God’s people pray for those who suffer, asking God to guide the leaders of troubled countries in peace negotiations and rebuilding of communities. It is easy to give up in despair and wonder why God allows such awful things to happen. However, as people of God, we are called to be part of the solution, to be the hands of God in the world and share our blessings with the less fortunate.
Loving God, help us to help your people who are in need and to be grateful for the blessings you have shown us. Amen. — MC
Contributed by Being the Hands of God
Every day we hear news of some disaster in the world. It has always been so. Luke tells us that when the prophets came from Jerusalem to Antioch they predicted a famine all over the world. The disciples sent relief to their brothers and sisters in the badly affected areas as best they could.
In the past year we've had major floods here in Canada, putting people out of their homes. Wars have displaced thousands from Syria. Typhoon Haiyan killed many in the Philippines and many more remain homeless. In times of disaster, human-made or natural, the disciples of Jesus and caring non-believers donate money and goods to ease the pain of those affected.
God's people pray for those who suffer, asking God to guide the leaders of troubled countries in peace negotiations and rebuilding of communities. It is easy to give up in despair and wonder why God allows such awful things to happen. However, as people of God, we are called to be part of the solution, to be the hands of God in the world and share our blessings with the less fortunate.
