In the United States we spend many billions of dollars a year on perceived needs.
I need a new winter jacket because all my other ones in the closet look dated.

I need a new boat.  My other one is too small, too big, too slow, too sporty, or whatever.

I need a new car because my other two cars use too much fuel.

We need a new house, because this one is already 20 years old, and the neighbors are also getting old.

I need more power tools, like a new table saw to go in that corner of the shop.

I’ve got to get some new clothes to make the trip home to see the family.

I need more cigarettes, more cigars, more chewing tobacco.

We’ll have to stock up on booze for the party.

I’ll have to get new carpet in the entrance if we’re hosting the New Year’s dance.

We need all new computers before the division chief comes to visit us.

And so on…

But what do we really need?

I believe children need a safe and caring environment in which to learn and grow.

I believe all people need decent food, decent clothes that will actually keep them warm and covered, and decent shelter against the elements.

Families need a place to call home, a place to work and rest and live.

Nations need the ability to produce goods, to develop their own society, and the freedom for their people to conduct themselves as human beings.

We do not need to be richer than everyone else, or stronger, or always right in our opinions and views.  We do not need to make everyone else do things our way.

As a Christian, a follower of Jesus Christ, I truly believe that all people need a good and right relationship with God through faith in the Lord Jesus.  However, I know that every soul must respond to God Himself.  Christian faith cannot be forced on anyone by law or by war.  If Christians will share God’s love and make the Gospel available, others will come to know the truth.

I believe every human being should have enough food to eat, and clothing, and shelter, and the opportunity to grow and learn.  I believe that all people need the ability to live in dignity and peace.  I believe we need to help make the world a better place in whatever way the Lord inspires us and guides us.

I believe that in every generation God uses individuals to shine light in the darkness, to be living testimonies of God’s power and love in Jesus Christ.  I believe that the world needs Christians to be that kind of light and witness.

I truly believe we — as a nation, as churches and as Christian individuals — need to act while we have the opportunity and the resources to make a difference.  Tomorrow is promised to no one.
Jim