Celebrating God’s Abundance in Times of Recession.

Mark 6:41-43 41 Taking the five loaves and the two fish, he looked up to heaven, and blessed and broke the loaves, and gave them to his disciples to set before the people; and he divided the two fish among them all. 42 And all ate and were filled; 43 and they took up twelve baskets full of broken pieces and of the fish.

The current recession may (hopefully) be coming to an end according to those who watch the leading economic indicators. And while I don’t think we can compare these last two years to the Great Depression there are some spiritual connections.

In times of economic stress our inclinations for self protection get enhanced. The fear is that there will not be enough. (Enough for retirement, enough for college tuition, enough to live the comfortable life we are used to.)

The Good news of God’s Abundance is that even small amounts can be blessed by God and made into more than enough. Scarcity is a negative emotion that comes out of fear and the idolatry of self preservation. Learning to give generously in the face of uncertainty can be a spiritually growing opportunity that blesses everyone.

The truth is we may have had to adjust our lifestyles. Even in the church we may have to adjust the way we do ministry. But we will always find a way to be the body of Christ for each other. We will always be reaching out in concern and service to the world and celebrating the life, teaching, death and resurrection of Jesus.

Too many good stories

This happens to me sometimes:

Monday morning I’m sure I know the Biblical text that I’m going to reflect and pray and preach on for the next Sunday (this week it’s the story from John 6 about the little boy who shares his loaves and fishes). Then in my opening studies an alternate text presents itself that is also wonderful. (The Old Testament reading for this coming week is the story of David and Bathsheba.)

David and Bathsheba is an engaging story full of intrigue, lust, deceit, corruption of power, repentance. The loaves and fishes is a great story that reminds me that with God’s help in opening our hearts there is always enough.

So I guess you’ll have to follow the blog throughout the week and see which story ends up capturing my spirit for our worship on Sunday.

In the meantime how about dropping some comments on the topic of ‘How is it with your soul?’

How is it with your soul?

This post is less for my reflections and more for yours. Post a comment with an anecdote that has lifted your spirit - or - an “I’ve always wondered about …” question - or - a prayer request.

Share your spiritual journey with us this week.