The poor you will have with you always.

Over the past couple of years the topic of helping destitute people has come up as a group issue from time to time.  As I was listening to some of the things that were being said, I actually thought these folks were being sarcastic and trying to be funny.  But as this subject was brought up more and more as time went on, I realized that what was being spoken were actually statements true to how these folks felt.  The words spoken broke my heart.

Maybe I’m a bit sensitive because the passion of my heart is to help those who cannot help themselves, such as feeding the hungry, leading the lost to salvation, etc.  You see, for years, I’ve looked at myself, my home, my possessions, etc and I see myself as having been blessed abundantly.  My family and I aren’t wealthy as wealth is defined here in the US.  We’re average folks.  But when I look at people in third world countries…I see myself as wealthy.  I want to do more to help others…this is the cry of my heart.

Jesus said that we would always have the poor with us…and I don’t doubt that to be a true statement.  Matthew 26:11(He was making a reference to His coming death and leaving the Earth, but I also believe there is more to this statement to why we will always have the poor with us.)  But, the question I ask is; why?  In the times that we are living in now, we have the capabilities to clothe, feed and help others medically, emotionally and spiritually…those who are much less fortunate that we are…whether they are located here in the US or around the world.  But so many folks seem to have no care for those who are starving and destitute.  I believe that Jesus spoke this because he knew that even though we do have the capabilities to help others, we humans are so self centered and self absorbed that helping others to the point of ending world wide poverty simply will not happen in this age.

I encourage you to look around in your own world.  Is there anyone nearby who may need your help?  It’s not just about giving money.  You can give of your time and possessions.  There are endless ways of helping others.  Get creative!  Ask God to open your eyes and ears to see and hear opportunities to help others.  Like Jesus said, the poor we will always have with us.  I encourage you to help others.  From my own experience, I can tell you that it will rock your world…in a good way.  It’s addictive!  You’ll love it and want to do more.  Go for it!!