Money, It's A Gas

Peruvians are breathlessly running up to me these days, full of panicky questions about the US financial crisis.

"Will the New York Stock Exchange collapse like it did in 1929?"

"Will this effect my family in the US?"

"Will my family lose their bank savings?"

"Can I still get a job in the US?"

"How does this affect the economy in Peru?"

"How does this affect the free trade agreement between the US and Peru?"

"Does this affect the Lima Stock Exchange?"

"Can I change my US Dollars for Peruvian Soles?"

There's panic on Wall Street and on Main Street in the US, and in Ovalo Gutierrez in Lima, Peru.

The US financial crisis is Issue #1 in both the US and Peru, and also all around the world.

Our Lead Pastor at Flamingo Road Church, Troy Gramling, recently said how the US financial crisis presents all of us with an opportunity to share with others about the lessons of Matthew 6:19-34, and how Jesus talks about storing up treasures in heaven, and not on earth, and how where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. Jesus goes on to say how you cannot serve both God and Money, and that worrying about all of this won't add even a single hour to your life. In fact, it may subtract from it.

This same opportunity exists in international ministry. No matter where God has placed you on this planet, there is an excellent chance that people there are talking about the US financial crisis and bank failures, and wondering and worrying about how it might affect them personally. The US financial crisis is a global issue, not a national one, and it also presents a huge opportunity for you to share the same lessons of Matthew 6:19-34 with the citizens of whatever country you are in.

Take advantage of this opportunity! It's like taking a wide-open jump shot or swatting a hanging curveball. People are worried and anxious all over the world, including wherever you are, and God can use you to calm them down about this financial crisis, and to get them to focus on the words of Jesus about true treasures, true service, and true peace.