‘As the deer pants for streams of water so my soul pants for you, O God’. (Psalm 42:1)Heat or eat is an unwelcome choice that many in our country are facing due to the cost-of-living crisis. Rising gas and electricity bills, petrol prices through the roof, and inflation running at over 6%, all exacerbated by the war in Ukraine, are making it very difficult for people on a tight budget to make ends meet. This week a poll in a national newspaper reported that 52% of people in the UK would be unable to pay their bills within months.
If you are struggling financially the advice given by Christian charities is to seek help early to help prevent a difficult situation from becoming much worse.
But for those who are able and have the opportunity the Christian responsibility is to help others who are in need. Even the smallest acts can make a big difference: taking an elderly neighbour a hot meal, donating some extra food to a food bank, or as Jesus might say, giving a cup of cold water to someone who is thirsty (Matthew 10:42)
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Jesus has been generous in his love to us, and he invites us to join him in a life of generosity, especially to those who find themselves in difficult circumstances, marginalised, and vulnerable. This is the heart of the gospel.
Through our compassion and practical actions let’s love those who are in need with the love Jesus has shown us.
In Christian love,
Pastor Barry
