How can we show compassion to those longing for "crumbs" in our community? The Crumbs at the Gate Luke 16:21 pictures Lazarus “longing to be fed with the crumbs that fell from the rich man’s table. Moreover, the dogs came and licked his sores”. The scene is stark—need in full view, yet ignored. Today, “crumb-seekers” still sit at our gates: the hungry, the homeless, the lonely, the overlooked. Why Compassion Matters • Compassion reflects God’s own heart. “But You, O Lord, are a compassionate and gracious God” (Psalm 86:15). • It proves genuine faith. “If someone… sees his brother in need and yet closes his heart… how can the love of God abide in him?” (1 John 3:17). • It anticipates Christ’s evaluation. “I was hungry and you gave Me something to eat… whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of Mine, you did for Me” (Matthew 25:35, 40). Where to Look for Modern Lazaruses • Families quietly skipping meals to keep lights on • Seniors choosing between medicine and groceries • Single parents drowning in bills and isolation • Refugees and immigrants navigating an unfamiliar culture • Addicts and ex-inmates aching for a second chance • Students couch-surfing to stay in school • The emotionally starving: shut-ins, widows, the bereaved Hands-On Ways to Offer More Than Crumbs • Share food, not leftovers—invite people to your table, not just your pantry. • Budget generosity first; treat it as a non-negotiable bill. • Partner with local shelters, pregnancy centers, and food banks; volunteer regularly. • Employ the overlooked: lawn work, childcare, odd jobs—dignity comes with a paycheck. • Keep care kits in your car: water, protein bars, socks, a Gospel tract. • Listen without rushing; presence heals hidden sores faster than coins. • Include the marginalized in church life: rides, seating, small groups, leadership pathways. • Advocate when systems fail—write, speak, vote for righteousness and relief. Guarding Our Hearts from the Rich-Man Syndrome • Remember ownership: “The earth is the LORD’s” (Psalm 24:1). • Practice regular fasting to taste hunger and fuel empathy. • Celebrate stories of generosity more than stories of gain. • Train children early: serve together, give allowances earmarked for others. • Reject indifference; indifference is the silent partner of injustice (see James 2:14-17). The Eternal Perspective The parable ends with roles reversed—comfort for Lazarus, torment for the rich man (Luke 16:25). Present choices carry everlasting weight. Compassion today echoes into eternity, “storing up for yourselves treasures in heaven” (Matthew 6:20). Stepping Forward With eyes open to need and hearts stirred by truth, meet the Lazarus at your gate. Offer more than crumbs—extend Christ’s own abundance, and let your community taste the goodness of God. |
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