One of the challenges I face when considering helping those in need is the question “Why exactly are they in need?”. While there is an element of making sure our donations go to people who actually need the help, I’ve had to acknowledge that the question of why they have a need often comes out of my judgmental spirit. I want to evaluate their life choices to know if they are in need because of things out of their control or because of bad choices they made. It’s almost as if I have to approve of their life choices or they don’t deserve any help.
I’ve been convicted that this is not the way Jesus would respond to those in need. We never see Jesus ask the 5000 people he fed why they didn’t bring their own lunch. We never see Jesus ask the sick people he healed why they didn’t take better care of themselves. Jesus simply saw a need and met it. He did this because it was only partly about the actual need. He fed the 5000 so they could have food, but also so they would see how God provides for them and loves them. He put action to the words he had been speaking.
Are we ready to serve those around us as a way to show the love of Christ—whether or not we think they “deserve” it? Do we deserve anything God has given us?