Practical Christianity in 2007

It is not often that we get an opportunity to help another who is suffering. It is even less likely that we shall be able to help such a person when he is a stranger whom we have never met. Yet the fact is that a large group of Christians has found a way to help a struggling hill farmer avoid bankruptcy.

A fellow preacher in my area advised people attending some local churches that he knew of a man who was really suffering. The man was a hill farmer who had recently lost his father and was suffering the effects of government restrictions following outbreaks of foot and mouth and blue tongue over 200 miles from his farm. For some time now farmers have struggled financially following the outbreak, nationally, of foot and mouth disease. The many restrictions that have been in place have steadily reduced their income. On top of this they have been seen as indirect sufferers of the diseases which have arisen and so not qualified for financial help.

Today, to be a small farmer is not recommended as a career. It is a line of work that has been hit hard in recent years. Yet, in this case, a scheme whereby the farmer can receive direct help from individuals has been devised. In my church letters were sent out to the people who worship there, telling them of the particular hardship case and offering whole and half lambs at good prices.

The result has been surprising as in 3 days I have received orders for over 16 lambs in whole or half form. They will be butchered into large or small joints and supplied from the farm on an agreed date. A number of people are now reducing the stock in their freezers in readiness for the delivery of their order. My problem now is whether I have access to a sufficiently large vehicle to transport the meat from this isolated farm!

It is a problem I can deal with because God is leading us to help someone who is suffering. It is a privilege to be able to save a man from bankruptcy by motivating other Christians in my area. It is certainly a unique venture and one I shall remember for a long time. Praise God that he encourages and motivates people in this way. Never forget in this era of exodus from the churches - GOD IS STILL SPEAKING!!!!!!!