We’ve all heard the reports on the news.  We know that these are tough times for our economy.  The financial status of our country is in dire straights.  Words like bailout, stimulus and AIG have become common place in our worlds.

Maybe you know someone how has lost their job or will be losing their job in the near future.  Maybe that someone is you.

At my church, we have many in our congregation who have lost their jobs and are struggling to make ends meat.  As a pastor, it breaks my heart to hear their stories.  I pray with them and we try to help as best we can.  Sometimes it can feel overwhelming.

Even in my own family, we’re feeling it.  My wife works part time as a music teacher.  She was told this past week that she will probably not have her job next school year.  When I think about that, my stress level begins to rise.  Even as I type this, I’m feeling a bit anxious (which is why I’m writing this at 1am instead of being comfortably asleep in bed).  Although her job is only part time, we depend on that part time income to help get us through the month.

I’m sure you’ve been there too.  Maybe you’re there right now.  If you are, I offer these words of encouragement - which are as much for me as they are for you...

“The faithful love of the Lord never ends!
      His mercies never cease.
Great is his faithfulness;
      his mercies begin afresh each morning.
I say to myself, “The Lord is my inheritance;
      therefore, I will hope in him!”
                                    Lamentations 3:23-25

May the Lord bless us and keep us - today and always!