There is in that alone the touch of a revolution, as of the world turned upside down. It would be vain to attempt to say anything adequate, or anything new, about the change which this conception of a deity born like an outcast or even an outlaw had upon the whole conception of law and its duties to the poor and outcast.
G. K. Chesterton, 1874-1936, The Everlasting Man, The God in the Cave (Dover Publications Inc., 2007, p. 168)
What are the Christian's obligations to the poor? How should we carry them out?
I have found many ministries specifically aimed at caring for the poor. I love to help homeless shelters, food pantries, health clinics and other groups that help the poor. Some churches help the poor but mostly they help themselves.
ReplyDeleteAs one who has preached at a Rescue Mission for many years, I have to admit this is too often true. I think one big thing that hurts here is the capitalist ethic that says, if you are poor, oppressed and downtrodden it is your own fault.
DeleteMy work in prisons and jails echoes your sentiments Mike.
Delete