Understanding Jesus’ Statement on Poverty
In the Gospel of Mark, Jesus makes a statement that has puzzled many Christians: “The poor you will always have with you” (Mark 14:7). Does this mean that efforts to alleviate poverty are futile? To understand Jesus’ words, let’s examine the context and the underlying message.
A Beautiful Act of Devotion
Jesus was dining at the home of Simon the Leper when a woman poured an expensive flask of perfume over his head. Some of the guests were indignant, suggesting that the perfume could have been sold to benefit the poor. However, Jesus defended the woman’s actions, saying that she had done a beautiful thing for him. He emphasized that the poor would always be present, but he would not always be among them.
Highlighting the Extraordinary Moment
Jesus’ statement was not meant to diminish the importance of caring for the poor. Rather, he wanted to draw attention to the extraordinary nature of the moment. He was about to leave, and the woman’s act was a preparation for his burial. Jesus was not saying that there are more important things to spend money on than the poor; instead, he was highlighting the unique circumstances.
A Liberating Rule
In Deuteronomy 15, Moses reiterates the law to the people of Israel, warning them not to be hardhearted or tightfisted toward the poor. He reminds them to cancel debts and release slaves every seven years, promoting a liberated and liberating society. In this context, Moses promises that there should be no poor among God’s people if they fully obey God’s commands.
The Reality of Human Rebellion
However, the book of Deuteronomy is also realistic about human nature. It reflects on the faithlessness of the Israelites in the wilderness and predicts future rebellions. This threat of rebellion underlies the repeated call to remember God’s salvation and humanity’s tendency to rebel.
Bridging the Chasm between Evangelism and Social Action
The truth of the gospel is best understood and embraced in the context of loving action and gospel-centered community. While Deuteronomy 15 promises that there will be no poor among God’s people if they live under God’s rule, it also acknowledges that poverty will persist due to human rebellion. Only a transformation of the heart will bring an end to poverty, which will ultimately come with the reestablishment of God’s rule over the earth at the return of Christ.
A Continuing Command to be Openhanded
In the meantime, the presence of the poor is a basis for the continuing command to be openhanded. Deuteronomy 15:11 emphasizes the importance of opening wide one’s hand to the needy and poor in the land. This command is not limited to a specific time or place; rather, it is an ongoing responsibility for God’s people.
Conclusion
Jesus’ statement on poverty is not a reason for inaction; instead, it highlights the importance of caring for the poor as a normal priority. By understanding the context and underlying message, we can bridge the chasm between evangelism and social action, embracing our responsibility to be openhanded toward those in need.
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