Lack of good jobs in Memphis is more than an economic problem, says Dr. Chris Scruggs of Advent Presbyterian Church. “It’s also a spiritual problem. If we do not create an environment in which people can find good jobs, we deprive our children of the opportunity to use their unique God-given talents, gifts and abilities. We impoverish ourselves and our society.”

Do you agree? What can the faith community do about this? What is your congregation doing specifically – mentoring, job training, etc. – to help?

When his parents asked the young Jesus what he had been up to after being missing for a few days, he asked, “Wist ye not that I must be about my Father’s business?” Some years later, in what is called the “Lord’s Prayer,” he referred to “Our Father.” Isn’t our first priority–our first business–loving God, trusting His care, and cherishing all his creation, including all mankind? That starting point has helped so many in taking the right steps in finding satisfying employment.