The Church and the Great Depression

Timothy Morgan writes, "History doesn't repeat itself, but it does rhyme" at the conclusion of a new article in Christianity Today called Jesus and the Great Depression.

The article is an interesting look back at the American church in the 20's and 30's as they moved from prosperous times into the Depression. There is naturally a good deal of interpretation in looking back at history, but I thought it was good food for thought. What impact will our nation's current financial woes have on the Church's outlook, mission, priorities and spiritual growth?

What will New Hope's reaction be?

Times like these can provide a gut-check for us as a church. Do we offer true hope, comfort and confidence for people who are feeling hopeless, uncertain and scared for the future? Or will these folks turn, as they did 75 years ago, to sects who make wonderful promises to desperate people? Will we continue to give financially to God's work here now that it takes some more faith? Can we focus on eternity rather than our brief time on earth, and can we help others do the same?