Word for the day by Christian Education Forum

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From Scarcity to Sufficiency

Bible Reading: 2 Kings 4: 38-44

Key Verse:  41

 Elisha said, “Get some flour.” He put it into the pot and said, “Serve it to the people to eat.” And there was nothing harmful in the pot. (2 Kings 4: 41).

DEVOTION

This scripture passage for today (2 Kings 4: 38-44 ) talks about two miracles during the time of Elisha – one where Elisha miraculous cleanses a poisoned stew with flour and the other where Elisha feeds a hundred men with just twenty loaves of barley bread. Elisha’s actions showcase the incredible ways in which God can work through individuals to meet the needs of many. God can take what is hurtful and make it something useful and he can also multiply what little we have and make it a blessing to many. 

God expects us to act justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with him (Micah 6:8). We are called to be the flour that changes lives by our love, perseverance and using our god given abilities to make a difference in the lives around us. The flour made the difference only when it was added to the stew and when it came in contact with the stew. Likewise it’s only when we selflessly give ourselves to others we will notice that God will use us to make a difference in the lives of others.  
I am always drawn towards the St. Jude’s research ministry. Its founder Mr. Danny Thomas, an entertainer by profession, founded the institute with the objective that, “No child should die in the dawn of life”. Since then, St. Jude has become a leading children’s hospital that treats and defeats childhood cancer. Unlike other hospitals, the majority of the funding for St. Jude comes from generous donors and families never receive a bill from St. Jude for treatment, travel, housing or food — so they can focus on helping their child live. What a divine ministry. 
The month of April is celebrated as “Autism Awareness Month”. Our churches do have a responsibility towards these children and their families. Serving families with special needs is core gospel. At our church we have a “HOPE” ministry where a few parents and volunteers cater to the needs of these children to a certain extent and make them feel they are special. This creates a sense of belonging and shows them that they are loved and valued. The biggest fear of these parents is concerning the future of these children after their strength grows weak. It’s time the church takes up their fear and come up with a plan to cater to the needs of these children in years to come. 1 Corinthians 12:26 states “if one part suffers, every part suffers with it”. So we need to understand their pain and act upon it soon as these children are growing in age as well. 
 

PRAYER

Dear Lord give me the eyes to see the tears of others, give me the ears to hear their cry. Give me the heart that moves to understand their need and the hands to help them.

 

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY

God blesses us to be a blessing to others. What blessing has God put in your hands lately that you feel nudged to share? 

Mrs .Ancy John, Immanuel Mar Thoma Church , Houston, Texas         

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