Compassionate Response

And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love. 1 Corinthians 13:13 (NIV)

On Tuesday evening of this week, I attended a Brockton City Council meeting with my brothers from L Street Mission. Also in attendance in the Council Chambers were two rows of our unhoused friends peacefully holding signs. The Council was voting on whether to fine our unhoused brothers and sisters $200 a day for living in tents and $50 for loitering. The first vote passed 7-4, and the second 9-2. Those passing the bills acted on behalf of their constituents, individuals, and downtown business owners concerned about public safety issues. While I appreciate these concerns, I disagree with the draconian measures taken.

As followers of Christ, we are called to live out the principles of faith, hope, and love, with love being the greatest. This call extends to how we respond to the needs of the unhoused and address public safety concerns. Our response must be grounded in honor, charity, and forbearance, reflecting the love and grace we have received from God.

Our call is to live with honor, charity, and forbearance, reflecting the love and grace we have received from God. This means showing love and consideration for the unhoused and those concerned about public safety. It is about finding a balance where compassion and wisdom guide our actions.

• Honor: We honor God and others by treating every individual with respect and dignity. This includes recognizing the humanity and worth of people without homes and those who feel vulnerable or unsafe.

• Charity: True charity goes beyond financial aid; it involves a generous spirit that seeks to uplift and support others. Providing food, clothing, and resources to the unhoused is essential, but so is addressing the systemic issues that contribute to homelessness.

• Forbearance: Patience and understanding are key. Forbearance means we love one another, even when it is difficult. We listen to everyone's concerns and seek solutions that honor the entire community's well-being.

How can we, as followers of Christ, live into 1 Corinthians 13?

• Advocate for Services: Support policies and programs that provide shelter, healthcare, and job training for the unhoused.

• Volunteer: Dedicate time to local shelters like Mainspring House or outreach programs like L Street Mission. The only way to understand the problem is to converse with those in the situation.

• Educate: Get to know the root causes of the unhoused. There is no one answer to why folks are living on the streets: rising inflation and housing costs, mental illness, and addiction. Once informed, raise awareness about the unhoused and its root causes within your community. 

• Engage: Work with local leaders and organizations to create safe, inclusive spaces for everyone.

Following Paul's guidance and submitting to the Holy Spirit, we can create a community where disputes are resolved with love and wisdom, and honor, charity, and forbearance are our guiding principles. By doing so, we show that we are truly living out the love and grace of Christ in our interactions with all members of our community.

Heavenly Father, we thank You for the love and grace You have shown us. Help us to exercise honor, charity, and forbearance in all our interactions. Guide us to show love and consideration for the unhoused and address public safety concerns with wisdom and compassion. May our actions reflect Your love and bring healing and hope to our community. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.

Blessings,

Pastor Tim