Sep 23, 2011 5 min read

The Scripture reading is Luke 10:25-37. Texts: “Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.” Colossians 3:2; and the ending of the Good Samaritan story: “‘Go and do likewise.'” Luke 10:37/c.

We hear or learn about so many tragedies all over the world that cause sorrow in our thoughts and pain in our hearts. We ask, what can we do and how can we help? We feel sorry for the suffering people, but we are too little and too far away to do anything. We cannot give much; let big countries and organizations offer assistance.

I dare to mention one of the worst tragedies, namely what is happening to the poor people in the Horn of Africa, where Somalia, Kenya and Ethiopia are situated. I cannot confirm the following number, I read it on the internet: thus far about 30,000 children have died due to hunger and tribal feuding in that region. The drought and the ethnic-cleansing force people to flee and there is nowhere to go, no food, no shelter and no care available that could save several thousands of people. The United States is helping, but the need is much greater than what our country is able to meet.

THE ACT OF GOD – THE HUMAN MISERY – AND THE CHRISTIAN CONCERN.

It is unfortunate that the insurance industry has this disqualification for a sad situation that cannot be attributed to anyone. It is called the “ACT OF GOD.” Why not rather say: “MOTHER NATURE’S BLUNDER?” or “NOBODY’S FAULT?” Regardless of how we specify the source of trouble or accident, the problem is there. We have basically two viewpoints: when we are the outsiders observing what has happened to others or when we are involved and desperately look and wait for help, often feeling abandoned.

What does the Bible say? As far as I know, there is not a specific reference in the Scriptures for this complex problem. In our text, quoted above, the two extreme points are mentioned. On one hand, be spiritual and be concerned about the heavenly, as Apostle Paul wrote: “Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things,” and on the other hand, as Jesus gave instruction, be practical, care for others, concentrate on the earthly: “Go and do likewise” as the Good Samaritan did. See our Scripture reading.

The very first thing we should learn is that our FAITH and ACTION should be in harmony and should not be against each other. In Apostle Paul’s letter to the Romans we read: “… everything that does not come from faith is sin.” Romans 14:23/c. However, Apostle James is also right when he emphasizes: “What good is it, my brothers, if a man claims to have faith but has no deeds? Can such faith save him?” James 2:14.

If individual Christians cannot do much, CHRISTIANITY, the “communion of saints,” the united followers of Christ, definitely can. We should be united. What is the trouble with every unification, merger, joint venture and consolidation? Most of the people are for it but only under “MY LEADERSHIP.” When two organizations merge, which organization’s CEO will remain the leader and what will happen to the other one?

When something tragic happens and there are many victims who need help, charity is our obligation. In many instances charity means monetary help. Because of the great distance, shipping materials is too expensive. We would be able to afford more financial support for the needy if we would spend less on luxuries. Who is the judge to tell and who can tell us how to live a simpler life? Who will say how much a person should earn?

The prophetic ministry of the church or churches (denominations) should be important. Most of the people know when things are going in the wrong directions, but sometimes recommending corrections does not make us popular. In a “democratic” system where “people” vote, who dares to invoke the displeasure of the majority?

In our modern (liberal?) society the emphasis is on the individual. Each person should feel loved, protected and cared for. Our interdependence is becoming more relevant with the trend of globalization, specialization and mass production. When we depend on each other, this is the biblical rule to follow: “Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.” Galatians 6:2.

Apostle Paul’s admonition to the Corinthians can be applied in our case also, “… But God has combined the members of the body and has given greater honor to the parts that lacked it, so that there should be no division in the body, but that its parts should have equal concern for each other. If one part suffers, every part suffers with it; if one part is honored, every part rejoices with it.” 1 Corinthians 12:24-26.

The Rev. Alexander Jalso is a retired United Presbyterian minister living in Brownsville.