Tough Times

We have been watching a significant economic downturn that is affecting all of us. Many in our nation have suffered loss from storms and fires in recent months. At the same time we are navigating through the ongoing political campaign. Decisions made in voting booths will impact future Supreme Court appointees, abortion, the economy, our national security, and more. In it all we have an unchanging, all-powerful God. Challenging times are a motivation to seek God, and seek Him we should. Challenging times also present opportunities for the church to advance the good news of Jesus Christ. When people are hurting they are more receptive to the gospel.

After ministering to the Samaritan woman at the well in Sychar, Jesus said to his disciples “I tell you, open your eyes and look at the fields! They are ripe for harvest.” (John 4:35b). The context of this statement indicates the “ripe harvest” is hurting people. The woman at the well had been married five times and was living with a man who was not her husband. Her life was a mess and she responded to the life-giving words of Jesus. He told her “Everyone who drinks this water will be thirsty again, but whoever drinks the water I give him will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give him will become in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life.” (John 4:13-14).

What a great message we carry to the world. I pray God will empower us in these hurting times to share His message effectively.

I also noted that Jesus ministered to this woman at a moment when He was tired (John 4:4-6). The concerns of the world and our labor can leave us tired, but sometimes it is in those moments that God presents new opportunities. When Jesus seized the opportunity to minister to this woman, He was energized by the Holy Spirit. The disciples went to get food while Jesus spoke to her and when they returned they urged him to eat “But he said to them, I have food to eat that you know nothing about … My food … is to do the will of him who sent me and to finish his work.” (John 4:32 and 34). It is important to point out that Jesus came aside to rest at times in His ministry, but there were also times when He pressed through the weariness to achieve the Father’s will. When that was appropriate the Father provided added strength, and I believe He will for us as well.