One paycheck away

We often forget those who are barely struggling to survive or stay afloat. Those who are one paycheck away from losing all they have. When we see someone living on the streets we tend to overlook how they got there in the first place. It's just easier to judge them and drive on. But there are millions of American families living in poverty, doing what they can to make ends meet. Some are behind on the rent and utilities, living both on the mercy and in fear of their landlords. Jobs matter. People need to work. Not just to buy a new sweater from Gap but to stay warm off the streets.
Jesus, telling the scribe who wished to follow him, revealed he was homeless. Living on the mercy and grace of others to sustain and house him. I wonder if he ate with sinners and tax collectors not to redeem them but simply because they opened their door to him and took him in. They cared for him when the Pharasees rejected him. We must care for those who are barely holding on. In doing so we continue the work of Jesus and at the same time help keep the homeless population moving towards being eradicated.

Meditate: Sanctify Christ as Lord in you hearts, always being ready to make a defense to everyone who ask you to give an account for the hope that is in you; yet with gentleness and reverence. (1 Peter 3:15)

Prayer:
Cesar Chavez (USA, 1927-1993)

Show me the suffering of the most miserable;
So I will know my people's plight.
Free me to pray for others;
For you are present in every person.
Help me to take responsibility for my own life;
So that I can be free at last.
Give me honesty and patience;
So that I can work with other workers.
Bring forth song and celebration;
So that the Spirit will be alive among us.
Let the Spirit flourish and grow;
So that we will never tire of the struggle.
Let us remember those who have died for justice;
For they have given us life.
Help us love even those who hate us;
So we can change the world.
Amen.