Chicago (2): Micah 6:8 - Poverty and Our Response

"There will always be poor people in the land." Deuteronomy 15:11a

I have on occasion heard this verse mentioned as a reality I should consider before I get too gung-ho about attempting to solve the world's poverty crisis. And, you know what, I believe this verse to be true to an extent, but I do not believe it to be an excuse to turn a blind eye. In fact, a quick glance at the words on either side of this sentence talk about the importance of giving generously (kind of funny how we purport verses to fit our leanings at times...I'm sure I'm guilty of it). I also cannot reconcile the reality that Jesus talks consistently about the poor among us.

Yet, I am still left with an overwhelming feeling. Where do I even begin?

There are three main roots of poverty:

1. Tragedy
2. Oppression/Injustice
3. Consequences of Sin

And again, the church has the responses to poverty. Micah 6:8 provides the framework.
He has showed you, O man, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.

Key phrases:

• Act Justly
• Love Mercy
• Walk Humbly

What do people who have experienced tragedy need? They need mercy. They need the tenderhearted to come around them and care for their emotional needs as well as their physical needs. They need unselfish, unconditional compassion poured out on them and their family in their time of need. We cannot provide genuine compassion for a lot of people for an extended period of time...but by the grace of God working powerfully through us, his people. We can give mercy.

What can be given to a person who has experienced oppression and injustice whether intentionally or not? They need justice. They need someone who will speak on their behalf when they are unable to speak. They need someone to stand up and go against the systems or structures which perpetuate these injustices. They ultimately need the giver of justice (Psalm 9:16). Does God not pour out justice through his people? We can give justice.

What does someone entrenched in the consequences of their sin need? They need humility. And they need to see humility modeled. They need humble servants of Christ to walk beside them, to bend down and sincerely walk with them. They need modeled a humble walk with Christ. It is only through Christ that true redemption can take place (Eph. 1:7; Col. 1:14). With Christ, we can model humility.

Too simplistic? Maybe. Is their truth here? I think so. How can we better respond to the realities around us?

I'd love to hear your thoughts, critiques, questions, and clarifications of this model.

Note to Sunshine Gospel

Maybe I'm naive, but I'm positive that some things actually changed in my life and in the lives of students here at Taylor. I've seen the change begin (and I'm realistic with change after doing multiple short term missions experiences). I've seen students approaching their minority roommate with a whole different perspective. I've heard about tough conversations. I've seen our students already pursue opportunities to share what they are learning in a variety of contexts.

Me. I view the world different. Will I sway from this at times. Yes, probably so. But, my eyes have been renewed. I view all situations through a fresher lens. A lens, I believe, that is a little more like the lens Jesus uses. My perspective is more eternal than it was 12 days ago. Thank you for being faithful in communicating and sharing what God has laid on your heart. I know it can get tiring and seem hopeless, but you have done a good work.

We most definitely saw compassion and peace modeled. You shared a tough message gracefully. You challenged us not out of guilt but solely out of a shift in worldview, a worldview shaped by the word of the almighty God. Your values were clear. Live justly. Love mercy. Walk humbly as we seek to see the poor and different than us the way God views them. This conversation will continue but I must work on my homework. Thanks Sunshine for sharing your time and your heart and your unique (sadly) view of the City from a Godly perspective.