Listening to “Girl America” by Mat Kearney made me think of all the injustice that happens everywhere all the time. I caught myself wondering if the majority of people just block it out and pretend that life is happy everywhere or if we acknowledge it, but just decide that it’s “too bad.” Neither of these responses is the right one. What makes us unwilling to reach out? What does it take to love a stranger enough to lend a helping hand; in the name of Jesus or even of morals in general. Reasons I can come up with are as follows:
-It messes up the comfortable life that I currently possess or am trying to obtain.
-I don’t want someone to reject my love.
-It’s an awkward situation and I wouldn’t know how to act or react.
-I wouldn’t even know where to begin…
All of these reasons are valid and most likely true. In Matthew 25:40, Jesus says, “Whatever you did for the least of these, you did to me.” There will always be injustice. There will always be hurting people – everywhere. God commands his people to reach out. It is awkward and uncomfortable. It is also seen as going above and beyond. Lastly, it’s perfectly acceptable to the vast majority of society to just sigh “oh, that’s too bad” and move on with life.
HOWEVER, this is no excuse. Too often, (I think) Christians quench the opportunities God gives us to be used by him to extend his love to broken people. That doesn’t mean that an opportunity was made crystal clear and we reject it (although sometimes this is the case). I think that often, we need to be looking for opportunities and follow God’s leading, even when it seems scary to do so.
This is somewhat of a scatter-brained post. Sorry. Your thoughts?
I think a lot of people are aware that there are many unjustices in the world but to them it seems as they are only one person and cannot really make an impact.
ReplyDeleteI always thought I knew where I wanted my life to go in the end and what I wanted to do. I consider myself to have a pretty big heart and empathize with peoples situations. I always wanted to be a social worker, I've always had a burden for abused and neglected children. Obviously, as of right now that dream hasnt gone anywhere. I started a job with an organization that is at the other end of the spectrum, I didnt want to be there forever but things have worked out and I don't want to 'rock the boat' to pursue something that I am more passionate about because I could end up failing and have nothing.
However, I believe many people live their lives and only see what's in their bubble. Perception is reality. The way people perceive things and look at how the world works is based on their experiences and what they see and know. Reality is not reality for people. Their perception, whatever it may be, is their reality.
Maybe they do recognize what's going on in the world and don't do anything about it becuase they dont think they would really make a difference or they dont want to 'rock the boat' in their own lives. Which sounds pretty selfish but if everybody took care of themselves and their families we wouldnt have 1/2 the problems we have today in this world.
I really do agree with everything that youre saying, though. Most people don't reach out to others for the reasons you've listed. Maybe I'm looking at the big picture too much here. Instead of trying to 'change the world' we should just start in our own communites, work, friends, etc.
I don't know, just writing down what comes to my head. Enjoyed the blog! Didnt even know it existed!
Keep on writing.
“Whatever you do will be insignificant, but it is very important that you do it...you cannot shake hands with a clenched fist”
-Ghandi
Perception is reality. Well-said. I agree that most believe that their contribution towards the goal of helping people in this world, is minor. In fact, in the grand scheme of things, it is minor. BUT, to that one person, it can be life-altering. And, aside from that, we’re not only commanded by Jesus, but empowered by him to go into the world and help people. While we’re to serve and love those around us, the reality is that doing this leaves many circles of people unloved. Orphans, windows, homeless, those with little family, etc… get pushed aside. People that are closed off from most of society, just trying to get by, get left behind. God calls us to these people. From what I see, most Christians live in their circle. They might serve the people in their circle, but those not already in the circle, aren’t included at all. We should start in our own communities, work, friends, etc… but a lot of the time, I don’t think we do that much.
ReplyDeleteAs far as the rock-the-boat scenario goes, I’d say get that boat a rockin and see what happens! I think we walk right by doors that God is trying to open for us because we are afraid. I also think God has more in mind for us than we often see right in front of us. I’m not saying you should quit your job on the spot, but give God the opportunity to show you where he wants you to be.