Family Promise is an organization that takes homeless families into their care by providing a place to sleep at night, meals, and the opportunity to get back on their feet financially.  It allows the family to gain their integrity, confidence, and the ability to find a job that will sustain them in their community.  If you have ever been in a place of homelessness or even close to it, you know the devastations it puts on your life.  You can triple the worry and concern when your children are involved.  No child deserves to have to sleep at night in a car, or on the street, and worry about where they will get their next meal.  Living in homelessness or poverty is heart wrenching.  How can one NOT worry when it comes to surviving and meeting our basic needs.

In Matthew 6:25-34, Jesus tells the people and his disciples, “Do not worry!…Will worrying add a single hour to your span of life?” (v.27) The answer is “NO.”  But, we are human and when we are faced with trying to meet our day-day-day basic needs, it is very difficult.  But, Jesus does offer up a solution.  He says, “Instead of worrying…’Strive first for the Kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.”  Just before this text, Jesus lays out the Beatitudes.  If you are familiar with them, you know Jesus’ words are very difficult to hear.  They are difficult because not a single one of us can do what He says to do without the help of our Lord!  You realize quickly that to follow the Way of Christ, means to have Christ in your life!  It’s the only Way!  I believe that is what Jesus is saying to us in this passage as well – Do not worry means to rely on Christ!  It means to HAVE FAITH in the One who created us.

So, what if you are not homeless or live in poverty?  Does then this passage pertain to you?  I believe even more so!  And, here is why…If God has blessed us with so much more, then so much more is expected from us to give to others.  If we are living a Christ life, and we are seeking the Kingdom of God, how well will you sleep tonight knowing there are children and families who are without food, clothing, and shelter?

Let us pray…Gracious God, there are so many children and families out there that need our help. Open our eyes and our hearts to those who are hungry, naked, and cold.  Lead us to opportunities to help others. We pray this in your name. Amen.