Crisis preparation means practicing generosity

I recently heard a sermon which outlined evidence that the speaker believes presages a worldwide economic collapse, even a famine. I didn’t understand all of the evidence completely, but the speaker’s emphasis on preparing for such a crisis by stocking up/storing up food and other provisions didn’t sit right with me.

I do believe that families (and churches!) need to be ready for a crisis, but we can only go so far in preparing to prolong our comfy lifestyle in America. Stuff that we’ve hidden in our basement is going to run out at some point.

The following excerpt from an article by blogger and filmmaker Carolyn McCulley sums up a more proper attitude to crises, in my opinion.

So for now, crisis preparation 101 means practicing generosity to those in need even when my own budget is tight, studying the character and promises of God, and storing up for myself riches in heaven rather than riches on earth. It means reminding myself that this earth is not my home and that I’m only a pilgrim passing through. But I’m a pilgrim following the One who assures a victorious conclusion. Above all, crisis prep means being convinced of the source of true peace— something that transcends circumstances. Jesus assured us we have peace in Him: “These things I have spoken to you so that in Me you may have peace. In the world you have tribulation, but take courage; I have overcome the world” (John 16:33). This precious truth is one to study over and over again as I prepare for whatever the Lord has ordained for my future.

I especially think that the first sentence is crucial:

… crisis preparation 101 means practicing generosity to those in need even when my own budget is tight, studying the character and promises of God, and storing up for myself riches in heaven rather than riches on earth.

One thing that McCulley is saying is that we can best be prepared for hard times by living as if we are in hard times right now through giving to others.

Besides, while we stock up for a future possible economic catastrophe, others are in need right now. Matthew 25:31-46 is quite clear on what our priorities should be. Nowhere in that passage does the king say, “When you stocked up instant mashed potatoes in your basement, you did it to me.” I believe that while preparing for minor disruptions is a good idea, there’s only so much we’ll be able to do in the long run, and that our main priority after our family needs to be serving others. In fact, that should be our families’ practice.

But I could be way off. What do you all think?