The definition of compassion is to “suffer with”. Feeling bad for someone’s situation or simply advocating for those that are currently living on our streets does not really fit this bill. If we are to see and feel the need, we actually need to talk to someone that is homeless. Listen to their story. Try to feel what they are feeling. I have recently had many conversations with those that are working for national homeless services that have obviously never had a discussion with someone that is actually homeless. They work for a paycheck and then defend their policies because their own well-being depends on that script. But the Samaritan, unlike the Levite or the Priest, was not concerned about himself. His focus was on this person in need. In his case, Jesus does not add in any conversation with the person in need, however his initial needs were obvious. Immediately, the man stooped down to patch up his wounds. This cost him personally. There was no government program to fund his efforts. He could not create a “go fund me” account to meet the need. Many are more than willing to tell others how to spend their money on how to help others. But the Samaritan felt the need and took very real action.
At some level with the story of the man or woman firing up your heart this action might include advocacy and fundraising. But if we are to win the war on poverty this process will require honesty. Do not sugarcoat their story. If they have an addiction, bring it up. Be honest. They need addiction recovery primarily. There is a story in the Bible about a man named Bartimaeus. In the story we discover that Bartimaeus is blind and is in need. He calls out for Jesus and when Jesus invites him into a conversation, Bartimaeus is asked what he wants. Many of those on the streets will say that they want food or shelter. But is that their real need? In my experience 100% of those living on the streets were housed at one point. 100% have received handouts of food. What did Bartimaeus really need? He tells Jesus clearly. I want to see. The man on the side of the road with the Samaritan needed medical attention primarily. Today our force of do gooders would throw some cash at him or put him in a house and then ignore him. Being a poverty warrior will require you to take real action meeting the real need. Once the man had his medical needs met he is taken to the inn where he can have time to recover. The Samaritan does not simply leave it there. He commits to come back and check on the man. What a powerful lesson. What if everyone took care of one person, focused their attention on that one person. Oh, by the way if this is done well. After a season of care the man left alongside the road will recover, become self-sustaining and then go out and help someone else. The care would be a short-term fix and the man could go on his way. Over time there are more and more people caring and fewer and fewer people needing help. We will begin to see virtuous circle that will indicate that we are winning the war on poverty.
