Generosity amidst uncertainty

O God, we live in a time of doubts, cynicism and individualism.

We confess that we are shaped by our times. It is easy to let our insecurities get the best and worst of us. The future seems increasingly gloomy, even frightening.

Help us to take our eyes off ourselves and realize how blessed we really are. We have much to be thankful for.

Help us to be like the owner of the vineyard in Matthew 20. He did what was right by all-not looking for maximized profit while ignoring workers' needs. Give us the same spirit of true justice-which is your shalom/salaam for all, not what the law or our culture defines as "justice".

Give us eyes to see the real needs around us and to share in the Spirit of jubilee. Give us hearts of compassion to desire to meet basic needs of others, both nearby and far away. And give us passion to work for structures that are a bit less oppressive and a bit closer to that great day when your upside-down ways will triumph!

In the Name of Jesus, our Master Teacher,

Amen

Jeff Hackman teaches social studies at Christopher Dock Mennonite High School in Lansdale, PA. He is a member of Plains Mennonite Church in Hatfield, PA.