The prophet Isaiah reminds us that God’s people belong with those in need—releasing people from the bonds of injustice—and with the hungry—whom we are to welcome into our homes. And in Matthew 25, Jesus calls the church to be with those who are thirsty, imprisoned, and suffer illness.
The pandemic has stretched the church and all of us in many ways—but we are still very much…here. Although it was difficult at first, we have expanded our thinking and our doing in new and innovative ways to close the distance and be together, and we have continued to be God’s people in worship and ministry, and walked with the most vulnerable in our community and world.
For more than 70 years, One Great Hour of Sharing (OGHS) has provided a way for us to share God’s love with our neighbors through the Presbyterian Disaster Assistance, the Presbyterian Hunger Program, and Self-Development of People programs. All three work in different ways to serve millions of people who lack access to sustainable food sources, clean water, sanitation, education, and opportunity. From initial disaster response to ongoing community development, our support of these mission agencies provides people with safety, sustenance, and hope.
During Lent, we celebrate that God connects with us through Jesus’ resurrection and connects us with “those who have least”—that’s how Matthew 25 puts it—and that’s what OGHS is all about. Connecting people who experience oppression, need, loss, or lack…those are the people with whom Jesus connected, and they are the people with whom we are invited to connect with today.
On Palm Sunday, April 10, the ELPC Mission Board challenges you to consider increasing your gift to the OGHS offering, and join Christians all over the country as they open their hearts to witness to the abundant love of God. For more information on how your gift helps people all over the world, and to offer prayers for the people and projects who receive this support, visit pcusa.org/oghs.