Here is a money truth to contemplate:
Money: Although the U.S. remains the world’s richest country, it has the third-highest poverty rate among the 35 nations in the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), behind only Turkey and Israel. Nearly 1 in 5 American children lives in a household that the government classifies as “food insecure,” meaning they are without “access to enough food for active, healthy living.”[1]
Contemplate the irony
How ironic to live in the country with the greatest wealth and to simultaneously be unable to resolve our biggest poverty issues. What is happening? What can be done?
Where is the money going? I’m not just talking about tax dollars but also about the money spent in the private sector. Are we spending wisely or selfishly?
Contemplating money truths necessitates self reflection
We are a culture that craves entertainment. A new casino, recently opened in Washington state, is a prime example. Opening day, the traffic was backed up for miles. People couldn’t wait to try out the tables and gaming machines. After all, the advertising experts say gambling is good for the economy and that schools will benefit.
Gambling isn’t among the best answers to our money woes. In fact, families can be worse off after a night of wagering bets in hopes that Lady Luck will make them rich. The house (casino) exists because it’s owners are experts at manipulating the public and turning a hefty profit. Patrons seldom see beyond the glitz and glam—or the potential of Lady Luck’s smile. In the pursuit of fun and easy money, the bigger picture is missed.
Of course, a night at the casino can be fun, and they host some great shows. Just be cautious when choosing to gamble. Make sure the household bills are paid, there’s food in the cupboards, and gas in the car. Use only discretionary money, that if lost, won’t devastate the family. Walk in with an agreed-upon plan; one that limits how much to spend, stays away from the ATM machine, and sets a time to quit. View games-of-chance as once-in-a-while entertainment; a night out. Otherwise, spending here can quickly fall into the foolish category.
None of us set out to spend carelessly
So, how can we contemplate money truths and be part of the solution? Dream for a minute. What would happen if we all participated in meeting the needs of the poor? I believe the generosity of many would become an abundance ready to meet the needs of the “food insecure.”
When we think beyond self, sharing becomes a natural, happy habit. Never a burden. Giving money or groceries to food banks, churches, and local community agencies becomes joyful. Our church collected peanut butter last month; so, we gave peanut butter. Bottled water is being requested for the summer months.
Since we live in the wealthiest nation, why not challenge ourselves to increase our giving, or to start giving, for the sake of others. Extra groceries will be in my cart this week.
If the OECD truths quoted above are taken to heart, surely, we want people everywhere to have enough food to fill their tummies.
Jesus said, in Matthew 25:40 “The King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.’”
[1] Steven Brill, “My Generation Was Supposed To Level America’s Playing Field”, May 28, 2018 Time Magazine
