It's official, it was announced yesterday that the stock market has officially lost half its value from its all time high a year ago. And with the questions concerning bailouts and bankruptcies on the horizon we may not have reached the bottom for this market. As people of faith how then do we face the future?
First we need to be realistic. These are difficult times for a lot of people. We will be seeing some people lose their jobs, lose their homes and struggle to put food on their tables just to feed their families. There will be some that will lose a big chunk of their life's savings and be forced to put off retirement or change their retirement plans completely. We face some very difficult times indeed.
Second, some changes may need to be made. In the midst of all the economic changes happening I have been taking a hard look at the way I live. I am looking at two areas of my life. What areas in my life can I cut back on and seek to live a simpler life. As I look at my checkbook I see a lot of areas where I can cut back because of my tendency to waste money on things I may not need for the sake of my own comfort. The question I ask myself is how can I live a simpler life? Also, I am trying to look at ways in which I can give more. How can I increase my giving to help people in need. I realize I would be unable to ease the suffering of all people but what I can do is help some people through this crisis.
Third, we need to see this crisis as an opportunity. I have a friend who repeatedly says, "don't waste a good crisis." This is an opportunity for the people of God and people of faith to step up and do what we can with what we have to help those in need. How can we step up? That is the big question. We need to listen to those who are hurting and not judge them but be a place where we can help with the resources God has given us. Praying for the guidance of God is a good place to begin. As we pray I believe God will direct us to action if we are willing.