Video of the Day: Clip from the 2016 movie “Saved by Grace”
Bible Verse of the Day:
Jesus continued: “There was a man who had two sons. 12 The younger one said to his father, ‘Father, give me my share of the estate.’ So he divided his property between them. 13 “Not long after that, the younger son got together all he had, set off for a distant country and there squandered his wealth in wild living. 14 After he had spent everything, there was a severe famine in that whole country, and he began to be in need. 15 So he went and hired himself out to a citizen of that country, who sent him to his fields to feed pigs. 16 He longed to fill his stomach with the pods that the pigs were eating, but no one gave him anything. 17 “When he came to his senses, he said, ‘How many of my father’s hired servants have food to spare, and here I am starving to death! – Luke 15:11-17
Biblical Connection:
The wealthy encounter the poor at least once a day in America. Unfortunately, the easy way to make this uncomfortable situation go away is to throw money at this problem. Getting involved takes time, slowing down and listening to an individual’s poor choices or unexpected circumstances that led to poverty. As Christmas draws near, don’t be afraid to lend a helping hand.
Today’s passage involves one of Jesus’ parables. Rather than lay out this entire story, I stopped at the crossroads of the prodigal son. When individuals reach a low point in life, hitting rock bottom, God gives you a chance to come to your senses. As food, clothing or shelter is in doubt, crying out to God is a great place to start. However, the journey back home requires confession and humility.
Closing Song:
As Christmas shopping begins, so do the ringing bells of the volunteer to collect donations for the Salvation Army. May the Holy Spirit speak to your heart this Christmas season to give an unexpected gift that will make a difference in a poor individual’s life.
by Jay Mankus
ExpressYourself4Him 