Enough

Read 1 Kings 17:8-16 The widow of Zarephath

Elijah said to her, "Do not be afraid; go and do as you have said; but first make me a little cake of it and bring it to me, and afterwards make something for yourself and your son. For thus says the Lord the God of Israel: The jar of meal will not be emptied and the jug of oil will not fail until the day that the Lord send rain on the earth." She went and did as Elijah said, so that she as well as he and her household ate many days. The jar of meal was not emptied, neither did the jug of oil fail, according to the word of the Lord that he spoke by Elijah. 1 Kings 17: 13-16 (NRSV)

Kate Rietema lives in Michigan. Their family often welcomes foster children into their home. Earlier this year, their case worker asked if they could host a five-year-old boy. HE had cerebral palsy, a seizure disorder, and spoke a different language than their family. Kate told the case worker they would let her know soon - fully expecting to say no.

Kate's Bible reading that day was the story of the widow of Zarephath. Because of a drought, she had only a handful of flour and a little bit of oil left when Elijah asked her for bread. It was difficult - day after day, she used the flour and oil, and the supply did not run out.

As Kate read about the widow, she felt the Holy Spirit's nudge to say yes to the placement request. It would be easier to say no; but if she did, Kate knew she would miss this chance to experience God's provision.

They took this young boy into their home. At times it was difficult, but like the widow's flour and oil, their time and love did not run out. As with the widow of Zarephath, God provided all they needed. When God calls us, it is a blessing to say yes.

Prayer: Generous God, help us to trust that you will provide all we need as we serve others, in Jesus' name. Amen.