"Justice is what love looks like in public!"

"Let us realize the arc of the moral universe is long, but it bends toward justice."
Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Atlanta, August 16, 1967.

But When Do You Share the Gospel?

I've frequently struggled with how to answer this question from some well-meaning (I hope) person asking about my ministries with the poor. I believe I am sharing the Gospel of Christ with each and every person I encounter throughout the day, especially during my work and conversations with the poor.

What they're really asking, however, is "When do you share the five-step plan of salvation and tell these poor people they must be baptized so they won't go to hell?" My belief and my response is usually similar to "I do not claim to be bringing Jesus into this neighborhood. I've found that God is already hard at work here, and I just want to join Him." Instead, I want to "be" Jesus to the needy, the poor, the oppressed, the humble, the oft-ignored residents of the streets, alleys, and rented shacks of our city, engaging in the kind of incarnational ministry He did. (see John 1:14) I have frequently found more faith among the poor than among my own socio-economic group.

The prophet Larry James shares how he reacts to such inquiries here and here and here.
Enjoy! The world is watching.....

Karing Kitchen update

After 10-1/2 years, Karing Kitchen is still an unpredictable series of ups and downs. That's life in the City, folks!

This week, the main refrigerator in the kitchen went out, spoiling all the food stored there, including the meat for Monday's meal. But our industrious volunteers just took it in stride, went shopping and prepared a wholesome meal for all who arrived. Although, I think everyone was relieved the crowd was smaller due to the holiday and the rainy weather.

Three older white women have been coming regularly the past month or two. They have been pleasant, but a little reserved. Monday, they approached Dana and asked if it would be OK if they made a small monetary donation! They said they enjoyed the meal, but mostly came for the devotional message and to get out and share fellowship time with each other regularly. That's humbling and encouraging!

This week, Kelly & Victor showed back up after being away for several weeks, but Kelly was sporting a broken arm. She explained that she had fallen down their steps, but couldn't look me in the eye when she said it. Rumor has it that they had a fight. We need to monitor that situation as closely as possible!

And finally, Janet's daughter and elementary school aged nieces volunteered to help with the cleanup, probably inspired by the amazing Robinsons. Madelyn, especially, was diligent in serving all evening long and probably has no idea what a great example she was setting. I tell you, the world is watching!