It’s an aspect of someone’s character that I have admired. Recently though there’s been reason to commend the When we read about Jesus and the amazing things He says and does, it’s understandable we think He’s being radical.
What is apparent from the Law and Prophets, however, is that concern for the poor and needy was hardly a radical concept. God ensured from the rescuing of His people from slavery that they cared for the poor and needy. It was to be the standard for the social state of affairs. Kings were to be known bu their compassion for the poor and needy. It was when this group were being victimised that God would sound His disapproval. Indeed the connection was clear, the closer we looked at what God wants the more we would be interested and become involved in alleviating and supporting the plight of the poor and needy. As there is a drift away from God and His standard for justice, so there is an inclination towards self-gratification, the pursuit of things that will bring pleasure to the self even if it costs the poor and needy.
The answer then for the situation is the same answer now. To truly see the godly response we can make to the plight of the poor and needy is to gain the heart of God to support them, not out of pity or as if you’re doing them a favour. Rather it is with a heart for fairness and giving generously.
For His Name’s Sake
Shalom
C. L. J. Dryden
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