8Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute. 9Speak up and judge fairly; defend the rights of the poor and needy. (Proverbs 31:8-9)
Today we continue our reflections on the Discipline of Service as we consider the theme A World in Need.
The Discipline of Service confronts a prevalent and pervasive philosophy in the world today – survival of the fittest. Just consider the example of the hoarding of necessary supplies that has been highlighted by the media over the last few weeks. And then there are the heartbreaking examples of many who view the elderly afflicted by coronavirus as dispensable.
Yesterday our commentators provided some really good ways we can help our neighbour. Today, I would like us to pay special attention to the destitute.
Please prayerfully read the passage above and consider the question below.
Question
In your sphere of influence, who are the destitute that you can provide service to?
March 24, 2020 at 12:21 pm
“Hope” is what came to my mind this morning after reading the text and reflecting on the question. Be watchful and listen for those who are destitute of hope. Then 1 Thessalonians 4: 13, “….. even as others who have no hope.”
I need to be a voice of “Hope”, ready to share the good news of our ” Hope” in Jesus, not just in death but in our daily living, to those in this present environment who are are losing or have already lost theirs.
March 24, 2020 at 1:07 pm
I could provide service to…
– the single parent who is struggling financially
– the individual without a vehicle
– the elderly
– the homeless (or donating to the food bank for the homeless)
March 24, 2020 at 1:33 pm
My biggest heart rendering moments are seeing some street dwellers. I have picked a few that I have chatted to. One asked me not to be sorry for him years ago when I gave him a bunch of bananas after he had cooked a meal on the roadside near my house. The other told me his home is too far, that he was highly educated. Others are drug users and scamps, how do we help them? I was hit by one.
We have done food banks, regular hampers, free meals, hospital transport, visiting the poor and elderly, parties for the disabled, provided school uniforms, paid grocery bills when you see them fumbling embarrassed, free housing (for a family for a yr) medical help etc. Some are happy to receive, some are regular theives; were gangster related; others truly desperate and very grateful to be blessed with the aid. We have to continue to share sensibly. We ask for Gods intervention and protection on all works.
March 24, 2020 at 3:45 pm
I don’t have much influence but when I see homeless people I give what I can.
If the church asks for something I help if I can.
I will share my food and money if I see someone who cannot pay grocery.Please note if not over 70 dollars as I myself not in such a financial excess but surviving and learning that we really don’t need that much ch food to live so we can share.
March 25, 2020 at 3:36 am
Here in Japan, I help the homeless people through my church ministry. You can either help by contributing money or donating winter clothes, blankets, food, etc., The ministry work that I’ve been supporting for many years now is helping the destitute and the very
poor and needy people in the Philippines, through the church of my youngest brother who is the pastor there. My donation also helps the youth in the church.