Poverty and Blog Action Day

“Out of the most severe trial, their overflowing joy and their extreme poverty welled up in rich generosity. For I testify that they gave as much as they were able, and even beyond their ability. Entirely on their own, they urgently pleaded with us for the privilege of sharing in this service to the saints.But just as you excel in everything in faith, in speech, in knowledge, in complete earnestness and in your love for us see that you also excel in  this grace of giving.”2 Corinthians 8:2-4, 7

I never really thought about poverty until the all this mess with the economy started. Sure, I saw those hungry children on tv with their bulging eyes and fat bellies, but I’d eventually change the channel to happier images and shows I could lose myself in and not think on their desperate expressions.

Sure, I gave to the poor and did my part. I sponsored a Compassion International child over the last ten years. I saw him grow from a boy to a man and then graduate. Now I sponsor a new child. I am doing my part in a small way.

But with the economy in crisis and only predicted to get worse, thoughts of my own poverty have come to mind. How long will we be able to maintain two house payments? Will our old house ever sell, and did we get in over our heads with the new one? Will we still be able to send our kids to private school? Will my husband’s business suffer? Will I have to limit my fast food spending and entertainment?

These are all questions that could radically affect my quality of life as I know it, but I also know God shall supply all my needs. Jesus tells me not to worry about my life, what I will eat or wear. If he takes care of the birds, he will surely take care of me.

But what about those people in the world living in real poverty? Who wake up wondering if they’ll get to eat today. How will this economy crisis affect them? Will they even feel the hit? Will God take care of them?

I believe he will, but it’s not going to be without our help. In fact, isn’t that what Christianity is all about. Being Jesus to the world?

Unfortunately, I think there will be many people who panic and withdraw their financial support to worthwhile organizations. In trying to save money, pinch pennies, I’m afraid the poorest of the poor will suffer. But in such great time of need people need to give more, not less!

The Bible tells us to give and it will be given back, pressed down, shaken together and running over. Running over! That means if we give, we will have more than enough and then some. This blog post isn’t meant to be a plea for your money, but it is a plea for your compassion and awareness to others around you. I will continue to give through this crisis, during this time of need. I won’t be able to help everyone, but I can help at least one and if I have to give up something to continue supporting my Compassion child, then I will.

How about you? What can you do? What will you do?

This post is written in a response to Blog Action Day, an annual on-line effort to get as many people as possible talking about one crucial issue in hopes of inspiring action and bringing about change. Last year, Blog Action Day centered around the topic of the environment. This year poverty is the issue thousands of bloggers will discuss. And I’m being joined by over 8,000 bloggers on talking about a timely and passionate topic. 

If you’d like more information on the effects of poverty and Blog Action Day.