Ragamuffin: poverty - part 4
Each expression unique
O
ne author states this truth, “The expression ‘the poor are always with us’ means 
that there will always be people who live in poverty and so need assistance from others (Manser, M. H., Fleming, N. B., Hughes, K., & Bridges, R. F. (2000, c1999).
I never knew that was in the Bible!. Rev. ed. of: The Bible word book / Ronald Bridges. 1960. (electronic ed.) (339).
The truth is so evident that there will always be a need for social services from us to others in need. We endeavor to reduce the crisis that we find in the families and individuals around us through our services and our ministry.
It is true what we read in the book, Mastering Outreach and Evangelism, that “If we vow to eradicate poverty in our area of the city, discouragement is inevitable. Better to say, “We will help families in poverty with the means we have available.” That is hard enough, but it is something we can do” (Ratz, C. C., Ratz, C. C., & Tillapaugh, F. R. ,1990). Therefore, in relation to poverty and counseling and the needs that surround the Des Plaines Corps, we will focus on what we can do and not on what we cannot do.
What are the unique ways in which you are helping to reduce poverty? The idea that every corps needs to be fashioned from the same cookie-cutter is sad. I think the day is here for us to be unique to our community and culture. Your issue might not be poverty but some other injustice or vital concern. Go for it - take back turf for the kingdom of God. May you make your distinctive mark on your community for Jesus sake!
Ragamuffin appears every Monday on theRubicon. Find past Ragamuffin posts and a bio of Capt. Jay Davis here.
2 Comments to Ragamuffin: poverty - part 4
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Funny…some Christians use that verse to justify NOT helping the poor…
Of course the balance of sacred text urges us to do something rather than nothing. Especially to those of the “household of faith”. The reasoning for a do-nothing attitude is contrary to the Jesus-style of life. Jesus healed people even though we will have the sick with us always. Jesus is the Master teacher when it comes to the poor, the fringe and the outcast. It is obvious that we cannot do everything but we must do something. Someone has said - “Do what you do plus one more good thing!” Little steps toward the kingdom style of life is better that no steps at all. Clint you comment helps us to discuss and re-evaluate the concept of helping the poor within and outside the context of the Salvation Army. Thank you for taking the time to comment. May God bless your socks off today!