The governing authorities are the servants of God to uphold what is good and right. But sometimes the servants get wrong. Bad wrong. Crazy bad wrong. When that happens the servants need to be reminded who they serve and what their role is. Such is the case in Ft. Lauderdale where three people have been arrested for feeding homeless people. Yes, you read that correctly. Apparently, one of the arresting officers instructed the culprit to “drop that plate right now.” Yes, drop the plate and move away slowly…with your hands up! You have the right to remain silent.
How many passages of scripture flood to mind after the reading of this headline:
“I was hungry and you gave me no food, I was thirsty and you gave me nothing to drink…just as you did not do it to one of the least of these, you did not do it unto me. And these will go away into eternal punishment.” -Jesus, Matthew 25:42,45-46
“In all this I have given you an example that by such work we must support the weak.” -Paul, Acts 20:35
“When you give a banquet, invite the poor.” -Jesus, Luke 14:13
“They asked only one thing, that we remember the poor, which is actually what I was eager to do.” -Paul, Galatians 2:10
“Has God not chosen the poor in the world to be rich in faith and to be heirs of the kingdom…But you have dishonored the poor.” -James 2:6
“If there is among you anyone in need, a member of your own community…do not be hard-hearted or tight-fisted toward your needy neighbor. You should rather open your hand, willingly lending enough to meet the need, whatever it may be.” -Deuteronomy 15:7-8
I could go on. There are many, many others, not to mention the texts that curse those who oppress the poor. That’s right, curse. The imperative to care for the poor is a chorus that rings throughout scripture. It cannot be missed by anyone reading with their eyes open. What is astounding is that this sort of tomfoolery must actually be named for what it is. Any clear-minded person should see the savagery in criminalizing ministries of mercy with the impoverished. Talk about having it backwards.
In this case, Mr. Abbot and the pastors who have been arrested are the ones who have it right. And they should take comfort in the promise of Jesus, “Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven” (Matthew 5:10). Well done, fellas, keep up the good work.
Photo credit: Associated Press