Lord, when did we see you?

Lord, when did we see you hungry or cold or frightened? When you saw the most vulnerable among you, it was me. ~ {A very loose paraphrase from Matthew 25.}

It intrigues me, the stories that emerge during a crisis. The ways that people shine ~ or not ~ when things are anxious, stressful or difficult.

While we have had our share of weather, things remain cold and awful in Texas. But there is also some Kingdom work going on.

Four quick tidbits. Even as I recount them, I acknowledge that Jesus-talk does not resonate for all people. It is also clear that the language of public service can likewise fail.

Let's start with the dark and move into the light…

1.After telling residents who are desperate for power and heat that 'only the strong will survive and the weak will [perish]' …. furthermore, that it is not the government's job to provide help in the midst of such a time … this mayor is no longer the mayor.

2.A Mexican resort was the last-minute destination for another Texas-public-servant. No, he has no magic wand to warm the frozenness, and yes, he returned in response to the public outcry.

The point is not to throw stones but to honestly consider where we are called and how we are called as the people of God...

How about a little light?

3.On the other hand, even though he failed to gain an office, this man is organizing wellness checks and aid for some of the most vulnerable in the Texas winter freeze.

4.And my favorite, how about the owner of a furniture store who has flung open the doors for the cold and the hungry in his community? Can you even imagine? Yes, he may have considered some sort of tax write-off. It is possible. But the reality is, he welcomed the vulnerable into his space. Remarkable!

This is Lent, day two. What will your journey include?

Pastor Leah