[Look, something brought you to this blog post. If it was a mistake—sorry. But if you’d like to see something that is probably more worth your time, please check out the blurb about my soon-to-be-published novel on my new website. It’s basically about seeing a different perspective of Jesus, through the eyes of some background characters in the Bible. New website: cjpenn.com]

The strength of faith can be very inspiring, as in some who are still suffering from the effects of Hurricane Katrina. In a May 3^rd article in my local newspaper, written by Becky Bohrer of the Associated Press, a story is told of the financial difficulties of many churches in the New Orleans area.

Basically, because of all the devastation and hardship that still prevails, the collection basket is going hungry. As stated in the article, “Some charitable and faith-based groups fear that local residents, worried about their job security and faced with higher prices for gas and food, may scale back their level of giving.”

Yet there are pockets of bright light shinning amid the darkness. According to the article, “Beverly Meredith, 65 and a retired clerical worker, said she lives on a fixed income in a FEMA trailer. She doesn’t yet have the money to rebuild her home. Still, she faithfully gives 10 percent of her income to the church.” Beverly said, “Times may be hard, but that amount belongs to the Lord.”

After being slammed and left homeless by the hurricane winds, Beverly still gives to God first, and herself last. That’s a tangible show of faith in God; faith that He will provide for her needs, beyond what her portion of her income is able to provide. What might Jesus have to say to someone like Beverly Meredith?

“Well done, good and faithful servant.” (Matthew 25:21)

“Jesus said to the woman, ‘Your faith has saved you; go in peace.’ ” (Luke 7:50)

“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” (John 14:27)

Or Jesus might say what Paul was inspired to advise to the Romans, “Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.” (Romans 12:12)

Or as His brother James had stated, “Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance.” (James 1:2-3)

The woman’s show of faith tells of her confidence in God. Being thus armed, what does she have to worry about? Her faith has set her free from the worries that might buckle the knees of a “stronger” person. Maybe real strength doesn’t come from muscles or wisdom. Maybe real strength comes from faith; faith in Jesus Christ.