The poor are precious to him

B. A. Manakala

He will redeem them from oppression and violence, for their lives are precious to him. (Ps 72:14 nlt)

Long ago I attended a wedding banquet. As usual all participants were well dressed and busy with their conversations during the meal. Most people, if not all, were busy in having their own meals. I noticed one of the participants serving a meal to a beggar who was standing outside the banquet hall. When I saw the beggar enjoying the meal, I wondered if this beggar ever had such a meal before.

The poor are precious to our God that he redeems them from oppression and violence (Ps 72:13-14). Perhaps, we generally connect with people of certain status alone, and icons ignore the poor. Once Jesus told a rich godly man to sell all that he has and give to the poor (Matt 19:21). He also suggested not to invite our relatives and rich neighbours for our luncheon, rather invite the poor (Lk 14:12-13). God wants us to have the same heart as His for the poor. How am I doing in considering the poor as precious?

It is best if we can consider precious what the Lord considers precious.

Prayer: Lord, teach me to care for the poor. Amen


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