There are many stories coming out of the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine, some that are true and some that are not true. There are many reports of people on both sides of the conflict being killed, and many people having difficulty surviving bombings, hunger, loss of loved ones, and unfavorable weather conditions. The country of Ukraine is known for its dairy farming, and there is now a story about milk that was about to spoil until it was suggested that it be turned into cheese to feed people in danger of starving. This is a perfect example of people being resourceful and innovative in solving very real problems in order to survive.
“Words from Above” in the Bible tell us of serious and severe problems in the days of the early Christian church due to believers being persecuted because they put their faith in Jesus. People often lost their homes and their sources of income, and were often disowned by their families simply because they made the choice of becoming followers of Jesus. Fortunately, some of the believers owned property and homes that they were willing to sell, and used the proceeds to help those in need. People were willing to look beyond themselves to see and provide for the needs of others less fortunate than themselves.
John, who was one of the original disciples of Jesus, wrote letters to the churches of his day. In one of those letters, he said, “Whoever has this world’s goods, and sees his brother have need, and shuts up his heart of compassion from him, how does the love of God live in him.” This is talking about people having the ability to help others, and acting on that ability to meet the needs of others. The apostle James likewise said that by helping those who are in need, it is a demonstration that our faith in Jesus is really genuine.
Long ago, Adam and Eve brought sin into the world by disobeying God when they ate forbidden fruit in the Garden of Eden. They brought death and destruction into the world, and it looked like the human race would not survive. But God had a plan in which he sent His only Son Jesus to be born in human form and die on a Roman cross to pay the penalty for all the sins of the world. This was truly an act on the part of Jesus that brought survival to the people of this world. The only thing we need to do is accept what Jesus did, and we will not only survive, but experience the unbelievable and endless blessings of God upon us.
Larry R. Steffee is pastor of the Center Hill Brethren In Christ Church on Miller Road in Smithville. Everyone is welcome to attend. For information, you may email lrsteffeetn@yahoo.com.
