Our Brothers' Keepers

I remember reading an argument by a blogger listing her reasons for not wanting to help charities and causes.  One point that she made was that she would rather help those who directly impact her life.  This article made me pause and ponder.  Her argument could be convincing for someone with weaker convictions because she was very adamant about her belief.  But it bothered me because it reminded me of what the Bible said that in the last days people will come up with their own righteousness- calling what is evil good and what is good evil (see 2 Timothy 3:1-9).

So, why do we have to take on the responsibility of inconveniencing ourselves in order to help others?  The answer seems so simple- we can lay down arguments that are logical, scientific, and moral.  Yet some have decided that the answer is not simple at all, and have chosen to remain unconvinced.

After the very first murder happened, the Lord asked Cain, "Where is your brother Abel?"  Cain retorted, "Am I my brother's keeper?" (Genesis 4:9).  The same questions are being asked of us now because although this event happened thousands of years ago, the same human heart beats in fallenness that would choose to deny and excuse evil and ignore what is good.

Are we our brothers' keeper?  Will we choose to stand between the gap?  The world will always have the poor, the sick, the orphan, and the widow, by choice or by circumstances.  We cannot save them all.  But it will matter to those whom we help.  It matters to God.

“Then the righteous will answer him, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?’  “The King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me’"  (Matthew 25:37-40).

 God is so good that we were given Christ who became poor for us in order that He may save us!  And having Him as our example, our source of strength, and our provider so that our blessings will overflow to others, we are more than able to help those who are in need.

"My life of service to God is the way I say 'thank you' to Him for His inexpressibly wonderful salvation." Oswald Chambers, My Utmost for His Highest.

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Helping hands
Nailing hand
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Scripture taken from the New International Version (NIV) from biblegateway.com.