“For the poor will never cease to be in the land…” (Deuteronomy 15:11)
Jesus will reiterate this sentiment in Mark 14:7 when the disciples begin to argue over the perfume that was used to anoint Jesus. At times, we have made the mistake of stopping at the beginning of this sentence, throwing our hands in the air, and admitting defeat in eradicating poverty as an excuse to not help the poor at all.
But read the rest of the verse: “… therefore I command you, saying, ‘You shall freely open your hand to your brother, to your needy and poor in your land.’”
The poor will always be with us as an OPPORTUNITY to live with open hands and soft hearts. The widespread existence of poverty and hard times provides an abundance of opportunity for Christians to do good works, shine Jesus’ light, and do good.
The size of the problem presents an endless opportunity for God’s people to be involved. The scarcity of others presents an abundance of opportunity for grace.
Matthew 4:4 #Biblebites
This Week’s Reading: Deuteronomy 14-23; Psalm 21; Proverbs 21
This year, #Biblebites are looking at lessons from the history of the Old Testament. Each week reads a section of history with a Psalm to meditate on and a dash of Proverbs to dwell upon. If you would like a copy of the reading schedule, you can view it here: https://eastlandchristians.org/news-events/2024-vision