So…last night I went to the Portland Rescue Mission to go to the volunteer orientation. I was really frustrated at times with some of the other folks at the meeting. People gave their wise advice on how they don’t want to “enable” the homeless by giving them money that may go toward their vices. I got that warm, shaky feeling from deep within that usually means that I think I’m supposed to say something. I did. Something about how us evangelicals use the fear of enabling as an excuse to do absolutely NOTHING for the least of these. As I processed why I felt so frustrated I realized the root. I wasn’t naive enough to think that I could solve the hunger and homeless issues of Portland by handing them a few bus passes or food vouchers from my pocket(as suggested by some goodhearted folks.)I did however hope that the answer, and my involvement would be simpler than it was. My delimma is that I care about the poor…just not enough to change may whole life. I want microwaved results witha system that is gauranteed. Too bad addictions don’t get kicked easily, relapse happen daily for most, and the only thing more addictive than heroine is the addiction to the streets themselves. These are the very people who Christ hung out with. I want to love, but on my terms, from a safe distance when it is conveniant. These folks need people who believe in them and have a sincere relationship that encourages them on in their sobriety. I fear that my own addictions to comfort, controll, and security may be harder to detox off of than the heroine.
“God help me restructure my life. May I slow down and make time for your people. Help me to be a house of hospitality for the margins of society. Embolden me to put faces and names to terms like “the poor” and “the homeless.” Break my heart for your people.” Sincerely,
mark
