August 16, 2011

My Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

Greetings in the precious name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

I am currently enjoying my vacation! One of the reasons for my enjoyment is that I am playing with my granddaughter and watching her favorite show, Sesame Street. She loves the character Elmo. However, as I flip through the television channels there are several other images that cause me great sadness: unemployment in the United States, the pictures of food banks with empty shelves, and the current drought in the Horn of Africa. The drought there has caused nearly twelve million lives to be at risk, including millions of children. Experts say it is the worst drought in sixty years. I am reminded that the children craving water and food are no different from my grandchild - or yours.

As I reflect on my own joy of being with my family, and as I reflect on the situation in our own communities, nation, and around the world, one passage from Scripture keeps coming before me. Jesus said, "Truly I tell you, just as you did not do it to one of the least of these, you did not do it to me" (Matthew 25:45).

Beloved in Christ, I do not know what kind of situation this letter finds you and your family. However, as Christians we need to be in prayer for those around the world and in our own communities who are in need. Those of us who are able should also consider making a commitment to do any or all of the following:

• Call your local food pantry and ask what they need and then respond.
• Visit the UMCOR website and donate prayerfully whatever you can to the humanitarian crisis in the Horn of Africa through UMCOR Advance Special #982450
• Place your donation for drought relief in the Horn of Africa in the collection plate next Sunday earmarked for UMCOR Advance Special #982450.

As God has blessed us, let us reach out and bless others. Thank you for joining me in this effort.

Prayerfully and in Christ's love,

Bishop Sudarshana Devadhar