We’re all hungry

by Greg Fowler

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He upholds the cause of the oppressed and gives food to the hungry. The Lord sets prisoners free (Psalm 146:7).

Read Psalm 146:5–10

I hear many people discuss the cost-of-living crisis in Australia. It’s concerning that in a country with a gross domestic product (GDP) of more than $2 trillion, many still struggle to pay their basic bills. Governments do their part, and charities do a wonderful job; however, the poorest in our communities are so often unseen or forgotten. International issues such as Gaza and Ukraine capture our attention, and media and political priorities can sometimes distract us from the needs of the vulnerable.

Psalm 146 tells us that God is the champion of all those who are hungry or imprisoned. Nothing escapes his attention. While we can acknowledge and feel the plight of the hungry, God sees, feels and acts. He sees the individual in the crowd, the specific need in a vast sea of needs. Nothing escapes his notice.

Aren’t we all hungry in one way or another? By the grace of God, I may have enough food, but my heart and soul are often unsatisfied. There are relationships that I wish were deeper. That feeling of connection that feeds my soul is rarely constant. It can feel like I am chasing something elusive. And finding peace in my heart can be equally elusive. We need our Lord to uphold our cause, too.

God has empowering words for us all. He has words that heal and satisfy. As we allow God’s words to take root in us, we feel his renewing presence. He also asks us to look to use whatever we have in the service of each other. In Galatians 5:13, we are called to use our freedom to serve each other in love. We see that spiritual and emotional satisfaction is enhanced as we show God’s grace in our service to others, and we have the grace to allow others to serve us. Our God looks after us directly and through his people. Praise God that he is at work, attending to the needs of all the hungry.

Dear Jesus, we know that our needs are known to you. We pray for our own hunger. Feed us with your word and by your people. Give us hearts of compassion to see the hunger in others and respond as you would. Give us your grace today. Amen.

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