Mock the poor? Glad at calamity? Who would do such things? Those who look down on others. Those who might even consider themselves better, not just more fortunate, somehow. Let me explain. 

 

There is much beauty in the world to be appreciated, but there is also an ugly side that we cannot ignore.  While there is nothing wrong with appreciating beauty or even good fortune, the question becomes how do you look at the rest of the world, and then, what are you going to do about it. 

 

Jesus said that we would always have the poor among us. It is a reality in our world.  But when we see the poor, or when we see calamity in the world what is our response?  There is the first glance and then the there is the second thought.  It is the second thought that will direct our gaze and motivate our actions. When see the poor or witness a calamity, in the next seconds, what do we do?  Or maybe the question is where do our eyes turn? 

 

 

Look Away – Pretend that it doesn’t exist. Ignore the problem and try to forget about it. 

 

Look Down – As this week’s verse states, mock the poor or find pleasure in the calamity of others. A hardened attitude that will not go unpunished. 

 

 

Look Towards – Have a heart of compassion, consider how we may best respond. Remembering those in need with your time and your resources. 

 

Look Up – Pray that God would minister to the broken, poor and needy. He has allowed them to come to your attention, use this awareness to intercede on their behalf. 

 

It is a sin to find pleasure in the misfortune of others. The good news is that the choice of where we look is ours, under our complete control. Even Paul was instructed to remember the poor (Gal 2:10). Consider this your reminder. 

 

And on a practical note, if God is moving you to make a difference, consider partnering with Project 1:1.  www.projectoneone.org They are making a difference and you can too. 

 

In His Hands, 

 

John