So many well-known authors and leaders (people with far more wisdom, insight and eloquence) have written and spoken about this topic. So just understand that the following thoughts are by a 23 year old girl...who just woke up.
I was reading some this morning about the impoverished and malnourished children of the world. It's hard to read. It's challenging and heart-wrenching to know that so many children are out there suffering when I have so much. Matt and I also watched Hotel Rwanda this weekend...a great movie but so difficult to watch. How did I not know this genocide was happening? We also watched the Brad Pitt interview last night...He talked about some of the work he's done in Africa and the idea that this generation can see the end of world hunger. I respect and admire what he's doing...
All of these things have made me rethink what I'm doing in this world. Why am I worried about such selfish, trivial things? Why do I have all the food I could ever want, yet these children have nothing? Why do I buy starbucks coffee? Do I really need that? Of course I don't need it (but it sure is good). Anyways...I read some of the following this morning on Compassion International's website (www.compassion.com). Some food for thought...
“’I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink’ … Then the righteous will answer him, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink?’ … The King will reply, ‘I tell you the truth, whatever you did for the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.’”
Matthew 25:35a, 37, 40
"There are 2,103 verses of Scripture pertaining to the poor. Jesus Christ only speaks of judgment once. It is not all about the things that the church bangs on about. ... It is about the poor. 'I was naked and you clothed me. I was a stranger and you let me in.' This is at the heart of the gospel. Why is it that we seem to have forgotten this? Why isn't the church leading this [AIDS] movement? The church ought to be ready to do that."
-Bono (Lead singer for the Irish rock group, U2)
4 comments:
Jenna,
I have been struggling with so many of these same issues. After watching Hotel Rwanda a few weeks ago, Mark and I could hardly sleep we were so overwhelmed with sadness and frustration about our lack of ability to DO anything. I think that this is one of the first steps, though. Christians getting outraged enough to want to do something...the next step is figuring out what to do and then doing something! I think I get bogged down in the question, "What can I do about genocide in Sudan?" But I'm learning a lot from the people in Maryneal that you do what you can and try to outdo each other in generosity and the Body of Christ is glorified in your sacrifice and love...
You're a beautiful and amazing woman! Thanks for blogging about this! Love you!!
Jenna,
I too have been contemplating what to do to leave my mark on world hunger and poverty. I feel that we live in a country of such excess and lavish ways of living, most of the time, wihout even giving the poorest and most needy people of our world a second thought. As I have reflected on Christ's call to serve and love the poor wholeheartedly and unreservedly, I have found that giving them a fresh cup of water and other practical things like that is what I am called to. I am also called to step out of my comfort zone and my fear to love them where they are, just like Jesus does. I have been wrestling with the question of Why am I so afraid of people with meager to no resources? It is my responsibility to show them that they too have a vital role in the master plan and in the landscape of eternity. These servants are just as cherished and beloved, or more than I am. God cares and is involved in the fruit of their souls. Studying social work this semester has given me a clearer picture of my life's work and God's command to attend to the needs, desires, and the souls of these precious bearers of His image. Thank you for convicting me again today. You are such a blessing, even through cyber space. Give Matt a hug for me and take one for you too!
Lauren Cunningham
I find myself getting overwhekmed with such a large scale problem, not knowing what to do (or how to do it) and ultimatly giving up on trying to help in such a global issue. However, I think if we start small our efforts can only grow. From the teaching perspective, we are faced with many children that are hungry that we can feed, clothe, and love! That is my first small effort and contribution. Also one great thing about teaching is we feed the minds everyday. Awareness even to little ones is a step. Who knows who sits in the chairs in our classroom and what will stick with them. After my little efforts throughout life, maybe I will get a chance to help in the global effort. Maybe we already have and don't even know it.
You have such a kind and gentle heart and I enjoy reading your blog.
Jenna,
I saw the Brad Pitt interview too, and I was amazed at how little our wealthy government gives to poor countries. I guess our first responsibility as Christians is to become informed and aware of the needs. Then we can start talking about it in our churches and deciding what actions we will take to help with this global problem. It's so easy to get overwhelmed and not do anything. Thanks for sharing your thoughts about this! Miss you!
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