Millions Of Unemployed Are Facing Years Without Jobs

Call them the new poor: people long accustomed to the comforts of middle-class life who are now relying on public assistance for the first time in their lives — potentially for years to come.  The NY Times is running a series of articles titled “The New Poor.” Articles in this series will examine the struggle to recover from the widespread strains of the Great Recession.

According to the latest article by Peter Goodman, as of January, 6.3 million people had been out of work for longer than six months, with unemployment assistance already exhausted or about to run out.  Read more on how the recession is pushing many middle class families into poverty.

We want you to be aware that this has hit too close to home.  Several Sojourn families have been deeply impacted by the economic downturn.  The implications for the church cannot be understated.  We, as the body of Christ, have a great opportunity to demonstrate the love of God to those who find themselves in physical need for the first time.  The apostle Paul reminds us,

Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially those who belong to the family of believers. – Galatians 6:10

Likewise, the apostle John instructs us that,

This is how we know what love is: that Jesus Christ laid down his life for us.  And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers.  If anyone has material posessions and sees his brother in need but has no pity on him, how can the love of God be in him?  Dear children, let us not love with words or tongue but with actions and in truth.  - 1 John 3:16-17

God is calling the church to be open handed to believers and unbelievers who struggle to meet physical needs.  God is not calling the church to meet physical needs only, but to meet physical needs in a such a way that bring together both Word and deed as we point others to Christ and his sufficiency.  I am constantly reminded in Scripture that humanity’s ultimate need is a relationship with Jesus, but God as Creator, Sustainer, and Provider also cares for our physical needs too.

Put It Into Action

Brothers and Sisters, our mercy is not an option.  Do not let this opportunity pass you by.

Pray

Pray for those families who are in need.  I spoke with a Sojourn family today, who are struggling to make ends meet.  The husband lost his job, the wife lost her job, they have a few children and they are without any means to purchase food (we have helped them with food).  Please pray that God would motivate us to be generous givers who are willing to draw near to those in need.

Family Benevolence Fund

Consider planning in advance to help a family in need by setting aside some resources into your own benevolence fund.  This way, you will be ready when a family member, neighbor or co-worker comes to you with his/her need.

Join the Benevolence Team

Join our team of deacons as we interview, assist, pray for, and come alongside families who are in financial distress.  Contact jmoss@sojournchurch.com to get plugged in.

Job Bank

Let the church know if there are any job openings where you work.  We can pass along the information as we are helping several families find sufficient income.  Email nivey@sojournchurch.com with job openings.

Sojourn Food Pantry

There has been a recent increase in demand for food.  Sojourn’s food pantry is looking more barren than ever.  Please bring canned goods and meals to the church if you are able.  You can contact mercy@sojournchurch.com for more information.