Helping the Hurting Where?

An interesting aspect of the thinking of many Christians is the ability to see physical needs in distant places while overlooking similar needs closer to home or right next door. According to an article in yesterday’s Tulsa World (September 13, 2010), Oklahoma ranks fourth among the states in hunger: “Oklahoma fourth hungriest state in nation”. The headline is a call to us Christians who live in Oklahoma. Our neighbors are hungry; our communities are hungry. Our towns and cities are populated by many “have-nots”, hungry and hurting children, and people with basic needs unmet.

It is exciting to help meet needs in distant places. It is equally exciting and rewarding to help meet needs at home, while at the same time having the opportunity to share the gospel of Jesus. May God give us a passion for touching souls with the gospel—wherever they may be found.