My friend and I organized a dinner for a local organization. We had about 60 guests. As we were having dinner, a homeless man came to the door and asked if we could give him some food. We brought him in, sat him at a table and gave him food and coffee. One of the couples asked if they could sit with him. That warmed our hearts because at first when we brought him in, we had many inquiring looks, as in, “Why are you doing this?” My friends and I attend the same church and take Jesus’ words to heart, “Whatsoever you do to the least of my brothers, you do unto me.” By the end of the evening, we found that the man’s entire family had died in a plane crash, his wife and two adult children. He said he was so broken, he couldn’t work. When his money ran out and he couldn’t pay his mortgage or had the energy to find out what he could do to keep his house, he began living on the streets. The couple who were sitting with him shared his story, with his permission, to the other guests. Offers of help came from many of the guests Three couples walked out. We feel in our hearts we did the right thing, even though those six individuals disagreed. Now, we’re in a quandary. We had no intention of causing trouble for the organization. Perhaps we should withdraw our membership? There will be a discussion about what we did at the next meeting. ~ Our Brother’s Keeper

Dear Our Brother’s Keeper ~

Doing the right thing, despite adversity, takes an enormous amount of courage. However, the loveliest part of the act of kindness that you bestowed upon the homeless man is that you didn’t even think twice about offering what you could. That’s an actual act of selflessness and humility, allowing, without question, your faith to take seriously the mercy and grace that our Heavenly Father freely gives. And the impact of your kindness for this man generated others to respond in kind, rendering an additional outpouring of love and care for a man at the depth of despair.

Living out our faith is often fraught with criticism. However, Scripture reminds us that we are not of this world (John 18:36) and that sometimes the way is rough (John 16:33). We also know that we will overcome the world because the Spirit of God lives inside each of us as believers and that He is greater than any adversity we might face (1 John 4:4).

There is an undeniable sadness for those who left the gathering, for which we may face myriad emotions. Perhaps there was a twang of anger, maybe guilt or condemnation, or maybe even questioning the validity of your choice to entertain the stranger (Hebrews 13:2). As much as we’re called to support those in need and the lost, we are likewise called to extend grace and thoughtfulness to those who sidestep the calling, blessing those who condemn us (Matt 5:44; Romans 12:14). We are blessed because we bless (Ps 128:1).

I would submit that leaving the organization is premature at this point. Communication is generally a better first step. When you discuss this situation, my hope is that the other group members will hear your heart and understand why you invited that man in for a meal (Proverbs 1:3-6). Of course, there’s the possibility that the action goes against protocol, but I believe change happens when rules are questioned and reviewed.

Perhaps that other couple who supported you would be willing to stand with you as a show of solidarity. If the outcome hastens your departure from the group, that would be a sad day. On the other hand, leaving may also be a way to move you on to a greater calling where your actions may have more impact. Prayers for discernment will definitely be beneficial (Phil 1:9).

Blessings to you for answering the call to action, standing in the gap for a brother in need, and modeling faith-in-action. Hopefully, the connections made that day provided a path to healing for the stranger to whom you ministered. Your choice reminds me of this passage in Scripture:

“Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord.” 1 Corinthians 15:8 (NKJV)

Continued blessings for your servants’ hearts and the work He will do through you!

Be Well & Be Blessed!
Lucinda