The Poor

Poverty Map

Looking at his disciples, he said:

“Blessed are you who are poor,

    for yours is the kingdom of God."

Luke 6:20 (NIV)

For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, 

that though he was rich, yet for your sake he became poor, 

so that you through his poverty might become rich.

2 Corinthians 8:9 (NIV)

The naming of Pope Francis (3/13/13), a Jesuit from the global south, was a remarkable act with and because of his focus on the poor.  Could it be that the poor will be a “blessing” and a healing agent?   Could it be that the mission of the church to the poor will be a healing moment of a God who is at work in the world?  Will Pope Francis be a “healing agent”?

There is no question that the poor have generated concern and debate within and outside the church.  What seems missing in the conversation is whether or not we are “with the poor”.  Being present with them is the Christ-like response and His mandate.

For healthcare and specifically global healthcare, let us affirm that we are with them where God is at work.   Let us join with the church universal in being “where God lives”!  Let us pray for wisdom in how we respond in both our hearts and our acts as partners in the Kingdom of God.  Help us to see our poverty and become rich with the blessings of the poor.   

Marvin

References:

Wikipedia - Map of Poverty http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Percentage_population_living_on_less_than_1_dollar_day_2007-2008.png

Debates about the Poor:

TED Talks - Hans Rosling & Esther Duflo

When Helping Hurts: How to Alleviate Poverty Without Hurting the Poor...and Yourself by Steve Corbett, Brian Fikkert

Selected Posts: 

11/18/12 - Healing Communities - “For the Greater Glory of God”

4/23/12 - Rx - Ubuntu

3/12/12 - “Standing Firm” and Pilgrimages

1/16/12 - Burdens and Benefits

11/14/11 - Healing Agent Education

4/17/11 - The Mystery of Healing

1/23/11 - Peace from Above

12/24/10 - The “Telos” of Christian Healing Agents