Across the Pastor’s Desk by Sean Forde

God supplies all our needs.

As I look at life and ministry, it is apparent that God supplies all of our needs. Whether it’s faith, family, finances, relationships, career, or everyday needs — God supplies it all. 

Philippians 4:19 says, “And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.” This passage continues to be true for all of us, and I have come to lean and rely on this promise more and more.

I am reminded each day of the people who just went through the storms of hurricanes Harvey, Irma, and Maria. How is God meeting their needs? Through good and caring people like you.

Here are a few things we have done as a community to lend our support. Obviously, we’ve made donations to the relief efforts through the various federal agencies and find that important. Some churches have each identified an individual family who lost their home and all possessions as a result of the storms.

Helping one family each focuses our efforts and makes a lasting and direct impact. As we connect with people who have a direct relationship with those suffering, we can easily get behind their efforts and increase our assistance and generosity.

Many in our community are collecting donations for a Lutheran World Relief semi trailer today. People from Northern Iowa and Southern Minnesota will donate school supplies like notebooks, pens and pencils, paper, scissors, and crayons; provide quilts, blankets, soap, personal care products like towels, toothbrushes, combs, and nail clippers. There’s a need for baby care products like clothes, socks, safety pins and towels.

Every little bit, when added up, helps to make a big difference. Thank you for all your prayers, support and relief efforts as we seek to live out the gospel of Jesus Christ in our community and for the sake of the world.

Sean Forde is a pastor at First Lutheran Church in Albert Lea.