Where we begin

The poor and needy are always among us.

We see them in our big cities, as well as in the small town grocery store.

Lives who matter to God, but appear as though they are of no significance to another human being.

Each face represents a story, and if there were time to hear their tales, our hearts would cry out for justice to be done.

Some stories are lived out because of poor choices, but others are experienced because of evil, tyranny, and injustice.

No self-respecting person would wish suffering on the lives of those around us.

Not one of us would wish to inflict more pain on the souls that are pitiful circumstances.

And yet we do.

I’ve seen a lot of rhetoric on social media this week.

We are all witnesses to the rage on both sides of the aisle.

Whether you are conservative or liberal, you have an opinion on the issues in the news.

The attack on Paris.

The lives lost.

The refugees seeking asylum.

The multiple locations around the globe where terror is being inflicted daily.

We see it…but only from afar.

We mourn…but only for a minute.

We beg for change…but only if it’s convenient.

I see a lot of lecturing going on.
One side says we should allow refugees in, and care for the less fortunate.

The other says we should be careful with our degree of compassion, until we know the legitimacy of the need. (There is a need…but this side wants caution).

Both sides yell their opinions over the glare of a computer screen. We pound our keyboards back and forth, as we make our impassioned pleas.

And yet, there is something missing.

How many of us that demand for these refugees to be cared for, have ever helped a local person in need?

How many of us have welcomed the homeless man from Main Street, USA, into our home?

How many of us invited the veteran who lives alone and forgotten into our home for a warm meal?

Before we wave judgmental fingers at the people we disagree with, may we point that finger at ourselves!

It is our duty to help people in desperate need.

We should never look the other way.

And, yet, aren’t we doing that every day?

Don’t we expect the government to handle all of the hurting, desperate people that fill our society?

And why?

I understand that there are systems in place…order is important.

But, before we stand up and say “WELCOME TO THE USA,” to refugees from Syria, maybe we should take better care of the thousands of lives who are already here. If we aren’t doing as well as we should with the least of these who are among us, then how can we expect to care adequately for thousands more?

I do believe in caring for the refugees. I spent part of my childhood around a number of incredible people who were refugees from Liberia. Refugees are typically inspiring people, with wisdom and resilient hearts. They need someone to fight for them!

However, in the meantime …

Pray that our leaders get this right.

Purpose to lift a hand to help those in need right around you, instead of just talking about those needs.

And, finally –as my sweet Momma would say–

Politely state your opinions to those with whom you disagree.

This is where we begin.