Poor of the World
135
senses. And from these abodes of wretchedness piteous cries for food
and clothing are sent out by many who know nothing about prayer.
By our churches there is a work to be done of which many have
little idea, a work as yet almost untouched. “I was an hungred,” Christ
says, “and ye gave Me meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave Me drink: I was
a stranger, and ye took Me in: naked, and ye clothed Me: I was sick,
and ye visited Me: I was in prison, and ye came unto Me.”
Matthew
25:35, 36
. Some think that if they give money to this work, it is all they
are required to do, but this is an error. Donations of money cannot take
the place of personal ministry. It is right to give our means, and many
more should do this; but according to their strength and opportunities,
personal service is required of all.
The work of gathering in the needy, the oppressed, the suffering,
the destitute, is the very work which every church that believes the
truth for this time should long since have been doing. We are to show
the tender sympathy of the Samaritan in supplying physical necessities,
feeding the hungry, bringing the poor that are cast out to our homes,
gathering from God every day grace and strength that will enable us to
reach to the very depths of human misery and help those who cannot
[190]
possibly help themselves. In doing this work we have a favorable
opportunity to set forth Christ the crucified One.—
Testimonies for the
Church 6:274-276
.
Begin by Helping Your Neighbors—Every church member
should feel it his special duty to labor for those living in his neigh-
borhood. Study how you can best help those who take no interest
in religious things. As you visit your friends and neighbors show an
interest in their spiritual as well as in their temporal welfare. Present
Christ as a sin-pardoning Saviour. Invite your neighbors to your home,
and read with them from the precious Bible and from books that ex-
plain its truths. This, united with simple songs and fervent prayers,
will touch their hearts. Let church members educate themselves to do
this work. This is just as essential as to save the benighted souls in
foreign countries. While some feel the burden of souls afar off, let the
many who are at home feel the burden of precious souls around them
and work just as diligently for their salvation.
The hours so often spent in amusement that refreshes neither body
nor soul should be spent in visiting the poor, the sick, and the suffering,
or in seeking to help someone who is in need.