Around the World

Swine flu outbreaks have jarred us into once more recognizing the nature of sudden changes on the world stage. While medical experts sort through the details of this latest heath scenario, we recognize the effects of disease as an ever-present reality of life shared on this planet. Old-fashioned good sense about hand washing…soap and water will do fine by the way, and concern and help to those who are sick is a continuing and appropriate response of Christian ministry. Many ways in which Christians react are different than those without knowledge of Christ. We are called to minister to those in need, and to share concern for those who are lost, naked, hungry, thirsty, sick, and imprisoned, etc. We are called to teach, make disciples, and share the good news of Jesus Christ with the nations of the world. Thinking in Christ-like ways will move us toward addressing those needs, not away from them. Christians will be recognizable by their love. And when that love is inspired by the very presence of God with us, in us, enabling and energizing and equipping us, then we will see what God can do through us, beyond all we could ask or think. Swine flu may come…along with any number of other ailments that might afflict us in some form or another…but we have opportunity to point others to the healing, saving, life-giving relationship with our Lord.