Sunday Highlight

Last Sunday I visited another Cambodian church. Most of it was standard stuff. We sang, prayed & listened to a 40 minute sermon. But there was one part of the service that was different.

About half way through, the Pastor stood up to ask if there were people there who were in financial need. He said, "I'm not talking about those who earn a salary but would love a pay rise. I'm not asking whether you could use some money to buy a new set of clothes. I'm talking to people who are in danger of not having enough to live on today or in the next few days... unless something happens. People who have some kind of financial problem now that you cannot solve on your own." He talked for a few minutes and asked those who were in need to put up their hand. About a dozen people responded. He reminded them that God knows their needs, hears their cries and loves them.

Next, the Pastor said to the congregation, "In the next song, you have the opportunity to give. Look for someone near you who has their hands raised. You don't have to give and you don't have to give a lot. 10 cents...25 cents is OK... But if you want to share what God has given you, then do so." The music started up again and people started moving. Of course, I was happy to be in on it too. People went up to friends and strangers with their arms up and pressed folded notes into their hands. Some gave silently, others whispered a few words of prayer or blessing. Some gave a hug or a gentle pat on the arm. In these small acts, God came.

Sometimes spirituality isn't so complicated. For those in need: ask. For those who have: share. Those who give today might need to receive tomorrow but that is alright because God loves to love the poor through people who love God.