When confronted with difficult circumstances, it seems that our inherent response will be to automatically switch into self-preservation mode. Our reaction to the current global economic meltdown is indicative of such behaviour. 
By Mark Reidy
During the production of an African wildlife documentary, a huge lion spotted the two filmmakers and began to sprint toward them.
As the ferocious beast bore down on them the man in front turned desperately to his colleague only to find him crouching down tying up his running shoes. “There’s no use trying”, the first man stammered, “You’ll never outrun a lion”. “I know”, said the other as he took off at great speed, “… but I can outrun you!”
When confronted with difficult circumstances, it seems that our inherent response will be to automatically switch into self-preservation mode. Our reaction to the current global economic meltdown is indicative of such behaviour.
During the boom time over the last few years, contributions to charities both here and overseas were at record levels. Many people were living comfortably and were able to extend their thoughts and their wealth beyond their own parameters.
How quickly circumstances have changed. Welfare agencies and charities are now crying out as sources of donations rapidly run dry. Not surprisingly, as people are squeezed financially they tend to become more introspective and consequently less mindful of what is occurring in the world around them.
It is human instinct to respond to external threats by turning in on ourselves, but, as Christians, should our behaviour and perspective on life be determined by our circumstances?
Jesus did not have much to say about share portfolios, mortgages, superannuation funds or unemployment, but he was very clear in His instruction to firmly fix our eyes on God, no matter what is going on around us.
Do not let your minds be anxious He tells us, for God knows what we need and these things will be given to us if we seek first the Kingdom of God (Luke 12:29-31).
It is this trust in God that should separate Christians from the fear and anxiety that is currently gripping our planet. It does not mean that we should be imprudent or irresponsible with what we have been given, whether it be great or small, but it does mean that we should always be guided by God, and not our instincts, as how to best utilise these resources.
Whether it is money, job or material possessions, we must not consider ourselves owners, but rather stewards of these assets.
In this way we will not become fearful or possessive if they are taken from us, as we know that, ultimately, God will provide.
In turn, our response to this wonderful love should be that we would always be willing to reach out in some capacity to those who are more needy than ourselves.
This may entail personal sacrifice of some kind, but this, when guided by prayer, is our call as followers of Christ. It doesn’t necessarily mean that we should give away our last few coins, as did the widow who was praised by Jesus – but it also doesn’t mean that we wouldn’t.
– PHOTO: CNS