May 30, 2008
Economic despair leads to outreach opportunities
I read a very interesting commentary yesterday that put a positive spin on the economic pressure so many seem to be facing. Can Saving Prepare Us for the Oncoming Recession? points out that the market has been abused by US consumers. We are quick to acquire debt and reluctant to save. That means we continually push the limits, only staying above "the storm" as along as conditions remain the same. Unfortunately, if one part of "the system" falters or changes, we discover that our lifestyles are really a house of cards.
The writer points to the oncoming recession as a necessary and essential market correction that will force consumers to evaluate their current lifestyle and asses the level of change required. This is a "come to Jesus" moment for many who for the first time (at various ages) will learn that building our lives on debt is much risker than we had every imagined.
I don't think the writer is scolding poor financial decision making; neither do I. I see a world of opportunity in the midst of a gloomy economic forecast. My greatest fear is that we'll fumble the chance to connect with people where they are and offer them a spiritual solution to a financial mess.
We need to see the potential bridge building opportunity debt provides for the Church. We do offer another way to view the value and meaning of life. We do offer another way to order our lives, one that does lead to financial freedom today and eternal freedom forever.
What steps is your church taking to address the anxiety and destruction that is consuming the people in your pew and community?
Posted by bstroup at May 30, 2008 1:11 AM
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