Christian Charity

I have a friend in Africa who takes care of orphans. His name is Pastor John. Life is simple there. There is a lot of focus on finding food each day.

John’s parents died of AIDS when he was two years old. He was raised by a window in the village. Lately, he has been depressed. I told him I was a counselor and he did not know what that meant. Therapy is not available where he lives.

I want to help me talk about his feelings. Like most men, he wants to pretend everything is all right even though he is depressed. He told me today he feels stronger because he knows I have his back.

It is so simple to help people even if you have no money. Just open your heart and listen to the pain world wide. God will tell you what to say.

I had this same experience with the homeless where I live. I offer them money and sometimes they say, “I do not need your money, I just need to know that someone cares.” I have also been told, “I need your energy.” “I need your prayers.” “I need your blessing.” “I need you to ask me my name.”

As Christians we are commanded to love our neighbor. We do not need money to do that.

Remember that loving our neighbor is not just a suggestion. It is a commandment. “My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you.” John 15:12