Our Safety Net

Lately, I’ve been thinking more about the security of my family. During uncertain times, my need for extra security rises. I store up more worldly goods and spend more time trying to figure out ways to protect my loved ones. I wonder if I am doing enough to keep them healthy and safe — and whether my plans will bear fruit for my children in the future.

However, true disciples of Christ recognize that attempting to create security on our own has its limitations. For the highest security comes from God through the loving care we provide to his people, our neighbors. As the old saying goes, “The more we give, the more we receive.” There is more of God’s reassuring grace in our lives when we choose to sacrifice for others as Christ indeed sacrificed for us.

In Luke 6, we are reminded that, based on our generosity to God and those in need, Christ promises to help us by pouring out a good measure into our laps. Performing good deeds for our neighbors is part and parcel to our discipleship. And to the extent we fulfill this call, God will generously provide us with the spiritual abundance and the divine safety net we seek.

It is the way Jesus lived as he journeyed from one community to another, caring for the sick, feeding the poor, and comforting lost souls. So it should be with our lives as disciples—where we are inspired to serve others by the depth of God’s care and love for us.

Lord, I am grateful for your outpouring of reassuring grace during those times when I feel most vulnerable. As disciples, give us the grace to fulfill our roles that we freely provide your people with the support they need in times of uncertainty and vulnerability. Amen.

Go Deeper — Think of specific ways you can reach out to a neighbor, even if you cannot physically touch them. Then plan to do these over the next few days.