Amos 8:(4) Hear this, you who trample the needy and do away with the poor of the land, (5) saying “When will the New Moon be over, that we may sell grain, and the Sabbath be ended that we may market wheat?” – skimping on the measure, boosting the price and cheating with dishonest scales, (6) buying the poor with silver and the needy for a pair of sandals, selling even the sweepings with the wheat. (7) The Lord has sworn by himself, the Pride of Jacob: “I will never forget anything they have done.”
As I shoveled snow on Saturday morning, I couldn’t get the latest cuts to USAID out of my mind. Having a sister who lived in Niger (central Africa) for two years and witnessed actual famine up close, the images of suffering just couldn’t leave my mind. My sister’s own personal experiences have made the plight of poverty-stricken countries all too real.
I recently had a discussion with a fellow Christian who feels strongly that government shouldn’t be in the business of distributing aid. He firmly believes that charity should be meted out by religious groups, not governments. Whatever your stance on that seems inconsequential now, because the stripping of aid is already happening even as I write this. Decisions have been made regardless of the heartfelt opinions of many. Changes are happening quickly.
What is a Christian to do? Ramp up those tithes beyond your own economic capacity so that religious aid can fill the gap? Turn a blind eye to the suffering happening on foreign lands and here at home? After all, it’s not our problem. It’s easier to look away, much as we often do when watching an SPCA commercial on television.
One comforting realization that has helped me through my own personal anguish has been by looking at the life of Jesus. In spite of his many miracles and feeding the crowds, Jesus didn’t minister to every sick and hungry person in all of Israel. He truly healed and fed many, but not all, because he didn’t encounter all. In an odd kind of way, I take comfort in that. I can only do just so much to “save the world.” The same can be said for you. But, oh what a difference we can make collectively!
Our scripture referenced above by Amos addresses ways in which those of wealthier means took advantage of the poor. May we always defend and support those who need our help. May we be their advocate and provider, to the very best of our ability. And, when our own influence can’t reach those beyond our limits, may we pray, pray, pray.
Jesus asks that of us. Nothing more …. Nothing less!
Blessings,
Diana
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