Relief for the Poor

Ken

Isn’t that the government’s job, a non-profit organization, or could the Church do that? “For ye have the poor always with you; but Me ye have not always” (Matthew 26:11 KJV). Actually, it is everyone’s problem or responsibility. The Church may use relieving the poor as an outreach with the Gospel, especially with missionary work, but relieving the poor is humanity’s responsibility. “Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself” (22:39). Cain objected to this burden. “Am I my brother’s keeper?” (Genesis 4:9). Ask a police officer, if homelessness affects his job. Of course it does. Even government appreciates volunteers, when tax dollars are stretched thin. If you object that government does not create wealth, only redistributes it. You would be correct. But, if a non-government entity does not step in, we kick the can down the street expecting government to be the last resort. And, government will step in, but in exchange for liberty. Look at Joseph’s Egypt. Pharaoh provided the grain to relieve the people, but they surrendered property and liberty in exchange for their lives. Christian, “seek the peace of the city whither I have caused you to be carried away captives, and pray unto the LORD for it: for in the peace thereof shall ye have peace” (Jeremiah 29:7). Father, cause us to bear the burdens belonging to us, but only with Your help. In Jesus’ name, amen.