Christmas Is Over, Now What

I've harped about it for most of the month, but alas Christmas is now behind us. Most of the world has moved on, and forgotten about all the needs that are out there.

We came out in droves to help people in need for the past month, but with a new year starting up we have turned our focus back to ourselves. For most of us, we don't have needs. We have wants.

If all you've ever had was wants, then you don't really know what it's like to start a new year with real needs. Needs are things like:

• Shelter - Not a new home or bigger apartment, but shelter. Most people want bigger, better, newer. But, one drive down Commercial Street here in Springfield, and you'll see people who just want shelter.
• Food - Whenever my pantry runs low, a trip to the local grocer takes care of my shortage. But, over the past year, my family experienced the real need for food. When money is tight, the economy is sour and prices are soaring, surviving two weeks on less than $50 cash becomes a crisis, especially if you have kids. This experience has helped me to relate to those who struggle just to feed themselves and their families.
• Work - One of the biggest characteristics of recessions is the loss of jobs. Right now, nationwide, unemployment is around 10 percent. Essentially, one in ten people who want to work do not have a job. The Bible instructs us that able-bodied people should work to meet their needs, and take care of their families. But, in recessions, work can be hard to come by for someone who has lost their job.

All around us there are people with real needs. These are needs that you and I can help meet. Some of the best ways are by volunteering at local organizations who are commissioned to address these issues.

As we approach 2010, I encourage you not to neglect the needs of those in your community. Because, someone else's need today could be your need tomorrow.