Urban Reformation

This is a homeless gentleman we often see off of the paseo. I was driving to work this morning, as I do every morning noticing the pan handlers. One of the things I like about rescue missions that actually are down in the heart of the city is that they minister where these people live. Jesus saw it best to be born in a manger, to be born into a family not of great wealth. To turn what those who thought their king would find important upside down and live near poverty. Jesus confounded the wisdom of the wise, and is still doing so today.  Sometimes I wonder not ever having been completely homeless what it is like to be free from the distractions of the world, the things of this life which tie us to our jobs, and our pocket books. Of course we must not forget the responsibilities of our families and children, but for it to not be so much of a factor in our daily lives, I wonder what it would be like. Our society has so built in its system of credit and debt and we are so wrapped up into thinking in this way we find it hard to think any other way. I want to encourage all believers whether they live in or near poverty or whether they are wealthy to view poverty as something close to God. If Christ Himself thought it something to be close to poverty why do we spend so much time headed in the opposite direction? There’s something to be said for vow’s of poverty as the Catholic Church used to do because in a sense it was throwing off all of the constraits of this natural life and seeking that which is from above. The impoverished in Kansas City have a different sort of poverty than I would imagine was back in the day of Christ although I’m sure many similarities as well. I’m going to list from the Kansas City’s Association of Gospel Resucue Missions suggestions on Eight Ways to Truly Help the Homeless. A member of my church at FCC named Don Davis, is employed at AGRM.

Let me be the first to suggest that there be a clear 9th way which should perhaps come first. Jesus Christ so atoned for the sins of all mankind, and those who believe shall be saved. So tell them about Christ, tell them of your testimony, how you came to know Him. Talk to them about Christ and what He’s doing, and done in your life. Don’t forget to listen to them, & demonstrate to them the reality of Christ, and the Faith in Christ, as you’ve walked along the way. Show them that they might know the reality of His Mercy, His Grace, and His forgiveness, and His life but most of all show them His kindness.

There is a difference in being truly concerned for their eternal being, and simply being there to ease your conscience, and often they can see it in you. So be prayerful in your endeavors and encounters with them.

“Or do you show contempt for the riches of his kindness, tolerance and patience, not realizing that God’s kindness leads you toward repentance?” – Romans 2:4

“So faith comes from hearing, and hearing through the word of Christ.” – Romans 10:17

Here are some simple guidelines to equip you to truly help the homeless people you meet:

1. Never give cash to a homeless person
Too often, well intended gifts are converted to drugs or alcohol – even when the “hard luck” stories they tell are true. If the person is hungry, buy them a sandwich and a beverage.

2. Talk to the person with respect. Taking time to talk to a homeless person in a friendly, respectful manner can give them a wonderful sense of civility and dignity. And besides being just neighborly, it gives the person a weapon to fight the isolation, depression and paranoia that many homeless people face.

3. Recognize that homeless people (and their problems) are not all the same.
The homeless are as diverse as the colors of a rainbow. The person you meet may be a battered women, an addicted veteran, someone who is lacking job skills…the list goes on.

4. Share God’s love whenever you can.
If Jesus were walking the earth today, He would certainly spend time with the homeless. He would speak with them, heal them, and help them. Today, Jesus chooses to work through those who believe and follow Him.

5. Pray for the homeless.
Exposure to the elements, dirt, occasional violence, and lack of purpose all drain years from a person’s life. God can use your prayers and the brutality and the futility of life of the street to bring many of the broken to Himself.

6. Take precautions for your own safety.
Some living on the streets are criminals and fugitives running from the law. Always be prudent while talking with street people. Stay in areas where other people can see you. Don’t take unnecessary chances.

7. Encourage the homeless to get help through your local Mission.
Rescue missions that are members of the Association of Gospel Rescue Missions offer immediate food and shelter to the homelessness through their emergency shelters. Many offer long-term rehabilitation programs that deal with the root causes of homeless. Many also offer “tickets” that can be given to homeless people which can be exchanged at the Mission for a nutrious meal, safe overnight lodging, and the option of participating in a rehab program.

8. Support your local Mission.
Most AGRM member missions receive little or no government funding. They are supported by caring individuals, churches, businesses, and civic groups who see the value of sharing their resources with the less fortunate.

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