“Blessed is the one who considers the poor!
In the day of trouble the Lord delivers him;”
– Psalm 41:1
God has a great heart and love for the poor. He has always called His people to be generous and caring for those in financial need. We are the means He has given to care for the financially vulnerable.
This is particularly true during this current season of suffering. In the past two weeks alone, 10 million people have filed initial claims for unemployment in the U.S. Yes, there are government benefits and stimulus coming. No doubt they will be helpful. Ultimately they will be insufficient to deal with the short-to-medium term financial pain that is likely to be experienced by millions. It simply isn’t sufficient for followers of Christ to point to the government and say, “They’ve got it covered.” We’re called to be sacrificially generous to those in need.
If you’re financial situation is comparatively secure: your job continues and your income remains relatively steady then be generous to a much greater degree than ever before! Give to organizations in your community operating food pantries and providing services and care to the financially vulnerable. Check in with your typical service providers who are no longer able to work and pay them for services they can’t currently provide anyway. Support local restaurants you care about to the extent that you can. And tip your food and product deliveries generously!
Be intentional, thoughtful, and creative in loving your neighbor if God has blessed you with the means to do so!