An Opportunity To Be like Jesus
Steve Collier
Jesus had incredible compassion for the outcast and downtrodden. He reached out and touched lepers. He spoke with a demon-possessed man who lived outside among the tombs. He responded to the cries of blind beggars beside the road. He allowed a prostitute to wash his feet. He did not hesitate when faced with large crowds in need. He labored past sunset healing many of various diseases and casting out demons. He fed thousands of hungry people. He preached good news to the poor. The gospels are full of examples like these. The final gospel concludes (John 20:25) with the statement that Jesus did many more things as well and if they were all written down, the whole world would not have room for the books!
I John 2:6 reminds us if we claim to live in Jesus, we must walk as he did. Most of us live in comfortable neighborhoods surrounded by people who have plenty of food, clothing, shelter, medical care and more. Although we may not be rich by American standards; by global standards all of us are awash in a sea of prosperity. People around us don't worry about malnutrition; they worry about obesity. In our daily life, we donšt often get the opportunity to help destitute people the way Jesus did. The upcoming Feed the Homeless event gives you that chance.
If you have never before helped Gerald and Stephanie Ponteau feed the homeless, you should consider participating. The shelter on Pine Street near Peachtree provides temporary housing for homeless people trying to get off the streets and rejoin society. After serving the residents, the doors are also opened for homeless people on the streets to come in and eat. Approximately 600 meals are served to men at the absolute bottom rung of our society. (The shelter also houses women and children, but they remain behind locked doors.) Make no mistake: homelessness in Atlanta, Georgia is not an equal opportunity employer; these men are mostly African-Americans. Many are older and careworn. They wear second hand clothes and their personal hygiene is less than desirable. Their weathered faces bear the rough lines of those who have lived outside; the eyes and demeanor of many of them reflect little hope of a better life. Most are well mannered; docile might be the right word. This is your opportunity to come face to face with the neediest people in our community and serve them the way Jesus would.
If you can, consider also bringing your older children, teens and middle schoolers. My sons Art and David went with me the last time and many other children in our ministry have participated. The experience helps our children be grateful for what they have when they see people who have nothing. David was particularly struck by how many of the men express their heartfelt thanks for the simple act of providing them a meal. Our children also benefit by watching us serve in this way. They see a real life picture of what Jesus was like when he walked the earth.
In I Peter 2:21, Peter tells us Jesus left an example that we should follow in his steps. Jesus steps often took him to people in great need. Don't miss this opportunity to walk in the footsteps of Jesus.