The Face of Jesus

Lucky are the ones given the opportunity to study, those who take complete meals each day, and those capable of acquiring goods for living. Lucky are those who do not experience much the massive poverty around the globe. Sadly, many people around us are experiencing too much poverty in different forms. Hence, we must realize that many among our fellowmen are in need of our help. They deserve our help.

However, how many times have we neglected the poor – beggars, street children, and the less fortunate ones? How many times have we shunned away from the dirty people that call in our doorway for help? We may all be guilty of these in many circumstances. But, don’t get me wrong! I am just stating some matters that I am also guilty of committing. However, these are realities; all true.

When you give alms do not blow a trumpet before you, as the hypocrites… but when you give alms, let not your left hand know what your right hand is doing. Mt 6:2-3

When we look around, we can see many people suffering from hunger, unemployment, slavery in the hands of their lords, etc. They are materially poor. Many of us are paranoid whenever we see poor people asking for our aid. Some shout at them and feel unsecured with their presence. We say so many words but gives so little. Sometimes, we say so many things but give them nothing but hurt.

There are also those who abuse the lowliness of the poor people. For instance, some politicians are extending their help in forms of gift packages but distribute such in front of the camera. Some are helping the poor but with vested interest behind their minds.

Blessed are the poor in spirit for theirs is the Kingdom of God. Mt 5:3
Meanwhile, the beatitudes remind us that the poor are the heirs of God’s kingdom. They are very lucky then! However, poor here pertains to those who are not blessed with material things yet put their fate in the hands of God. The poor are those whose hope, strength, and satisfaction is in God alone. In return, God is in their side.
Jesus himself is no stranger to poverty. He lived out a poor life on his earthy days. He was born to a borrowed manger and was placed on a borrowed tomb on his death. He also experienced being rejected, persecuted, and was even brutally killed. Though God, he let himself suffer in the hand of ordinary people. No wonder why he loves the poor and the suffering so much so that he promised heaven to them. The poor signifies the image of Jesus: simple, humble, and trusts only in the Father.

Indeed, the poor are lucky. But lucky too are those who are willing to lend their hands to help the poor in their misery. Their goodness will surely be meritorious in heaven.

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This article is written in Rogationist Seminary – Manila in November 29, 2004 during their Monthly Community Recollection.