Our world is very needy. There are many organizations that help the poor, sick, outcast. But the one place the Christian is to look for guidance, help, encouragement and support is the Church family. Acts 2:42-47 is a lovely description of the way the Church is to care for our own. Up until the last century the Church was the sole place of true help in time of need.
Reading in 1 Timothy 5:3-5 goes as far as describing the care of widows in the Church. Listen to these words written to Timothy by the Apostle Paul: Honor widows who are widows indeed; but if any widow has children or grand-children they must first learn to practice piety in regard to their own family and to make some return to their parents; for this is acceptable in the sight of God. Now she who is a widow indeed and who has been alone, has fixed her Hope in God and continues in entreaties and prayers night and day.
The widow indeed (v.3) is commended to the care of the local church. This is just one example of Godly caring of those in need in the body of Christ the Church! Words to ponder and take seriously in our local church family!
From my heart to yours, Sandra J. Mikler Davis, Director Women in Discipleship, Inc. womenindiscipleship.org