Foundations for Christian Mission, Student Workbook, SW04

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F O U N D A T I O N S F O R C H R I S T I A N M I S S I O N

* Complete the following statement: “If I had to describe my current attitude about the poor with a single word or phrase, it would be . . .” * How involved have you been personally in ministries that serve the poor? What were your attitudes as you interacted with them? Have you found it difficult to love and serve the poor? Why or why not? * Are you currently involved in a ministry with one in Jesus’ group of the “least of these, my brethren,” (i.e., the hungry, thirsty, the stranger, the naked, the sick, and the prisoner)? What are the kinds of attitudes and understandings required to minister effectively among them? * Would those who know you characterize you as both generous and hospitable? Why do you think these traits are given such attention in connection with the kingdom ethic in the NT? * If a person is stingy and selfish, what is the best way for them to learn how to become generous and hospitable? Why is it important to find the widows, fatherless, and the poor to serve, even if locating them is difficult and “off our beaten path?” * Do you find it easy to believe in the transformation of poor people–what kind of attitude do you communicate to others about those who are poor? Are you accustomed to blaming the poor for their problems, or do you rather tend to respect them as those who are chosen by God? * Complete the following sentence: “If God could just one thing in my own attitude and life to make me more effective in caring for others who are poor, I would ask him to . . .”

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The Problem of Katrina

The entire United States watched in horror when Katrina hit the great southern city of New Orleans, and affected the thousands of urban poor who were stranded without food, water, or aid. To see so many elderly, young, and needy people suffer miserably in substandard living situations was deeply painful; no amount of excuses, blame shifting, or promises about “next time” could bring relief or comfort to the many who still, to this day, suffer without jobs, financial support, or any idea of the next steps in their lives. The lack of service to the poor has been attributed to many