Keep the Faith

But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me                                                                                                                                                II Corinthians 12:9

Sometimes it’s hard, isn’t it? You know, keeping the faith in spite of things that we see around us. During the government shutdown here in the United States, some government programs have been, well, shut down. One of those programs is the SNAP Program, formerly known as Food Stamps. This has caused real and palpable suffering for many Americans who rely upon this to supplement nutrition to their family.

However, we never should let a crisis go to waste. This has served as a catalyst for many people and organizations to mobilize like never before to refill food pantries, and promote extra generosity among many churches and civic groups.

Let’s never confuse the intransigence and shortsightedness of many elected leaders, on both sides of the political aisle, with the good will of the American people writ large. The virtues of care and compassion are still alive and well. The shutdown, while painful, is also an opportunity for people to show resilience and strength.

Sometimes, we need to lead from the rank and file of our country, to show the elected leadership who is still in charge of the democracy we cherish.

Prayer: Help us to see that strength is shown in compassion, Amen