April 16th, 2020

Good Day to all,
Before I proceed, I want to make a disclaimer. What I will share this morning is not intended to make light of anyone who is struggling financially and is in need of the promised stimulus check. I know that the current situation in our country has caused the loss of income for many families who at present are wondering how to pay their bills or put food on the table.

The reason for my disclaimer is that in the news today was an article of the stress many are dealing with due to the fact that they have seen others receive their stimulus checks and they have not. Fuel to the stress fire is the report that the website that the IRS advertised as a conduit to streamline getting those funds was overwhelmed and instead of providing a solution, added to the angst. 

While there are already pictures on social media of people using the stimulus funds for purchases of non essentials, there are those who are waiting simply to take care of basic necessities. All that being said, my mind went to where the hope of many is being placed. In this case it is in a check from the government.  Years ago, I sat at a pastor's breakfast in Chile where the discussion was which political candidate for a local office to endorse. The meter for determining who to endorse was who made better promises to local congregations. Several candidates assured pastors that if they were elected, they would make sure the pastors who supported their campaign would receive grants for property or be given a waiver to purchase city owned land at a bargain price. For pastors who dreamt of property to build a larger church, the promises were very enticing. I did not win any popularity contests when I was asked for my opinion which was that our hope should be in Christ and not in Rome. 

On the subject of hope, Peter writes in 1Peter 1:3-5 [Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! According to HIs great mercy, He has caused us to be born again to a living hope, through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven for you, who by God's power are being guarded through faith for a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.]

Sooner or later the stimulus checks will arrive, but they will not last long. The relief they provide will fade. What does not, and cannot fade is the hope of our future promised to those who hold fast to Jesus Christ. 
Have a blessed day.
​Vic