"At least two things must be said. First, when it comes to caring for the poor in our locations, the sheer magnitude of the task can tempt us to apathy. However, on this point the Scriptures are clear: neglect those among us who have material and physical needs, and our rituals are meaningless. Worse than meaningless - they make God sick. We must remember that the validity of our worship hinges on our commitment to the homeless and hungry outside our door.
Second, many church leaders take this issue quite seriously. And each congregation has its own financial challenges, its own burdens to carry. But if God's provision is going to meet the poor where they live, we must honestly assess what our church budgets say about our true priorities. Is meeting the needs of the marginalized a central or peripheral concern? What material and aesthetic comforts are we addicted to, and what sacrifices must we make so that all people have their basic needs met? Is the gospel we preach good news for the rich and poor alike? Are both being filled?"
OMG! So pure and simple. So clear and concise. My heart is just blowing up with the Message.
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