Paris At the famous Jerusalem Conference (AD 50), the Apostle Paul discussed vital matters with the Twelve Apostles (see Acts 15:1-29; Galatians 2:1-10). Above all else, the Twelve made sure that Paul would continue to do one thing: "remember the poor" (Galatians 2:10). That is still the church's mission in this selfish, materialistic age plagued by recession, foreclosures, and job loss. Do we remember the poor?

Three weeks ago I experienced an exciting blessing. A total stranger asked me to help her. She was poor, jobless, and her fa-mily needed food. So I took her to a local grocery store and bought her enough supplies to feed her hungry family for a week. And guess what? It made me feel good. It proved to be a tremendous blessing in my life. It lifted my spirits in a way I cannot even begin to tell you. Helping the poor and needy brings a blessing not only on them but also upon all who give to them. When we "help the weak," we reap the blessing promised to us by our Lord Jesus when He said, "It is more blessed to give than to receive" (Acts 20:34-35; see also Psalm 41:1-3; Deuteronomy 14:29; 15:7-11; Proverbs 22:9). Do we remember the poor and enjoy this blessing?

Opportunities for individuals to "help thy neighbor" can come in many forms such as getting involved in the local food pantries, making donations to special benevolent church and community funds, and helping with meals on wheels.

Let's honor God and glorify Christ by remembering the poor. "Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all" (Galatians 6:10).

Andrew Paris is pastor at the Delphi Christian Church.