I wanted to share with you some powerful lessons I have learned from the poor:
Lesson 1: There is always a cheaper way to get something done if I’m willing to “make do.”
I was shocked when my Kenyan friend pointed out the motorcycle weaving in and out of traffic. “The older woman, sandwiched between the two younger men on that motorbike is deceased” he said. “They don’t have taxi fare to get her to the cemetary, so they are making do with what they can afford.” Wow! And I thought I was making do by shopping on Craigslist for my major purchases!
Lesson 2: Interdependence is good. I would benefit from more of it in my own community.
My friends in Africa display an amazing interdependency upon one another. If James needs money for rent or food, he has no problem asking his friend for it. More than likely, his friend will need the same help in a month or two and will reciprocate. This type of give-and-take interchange, in every facet of life, is a normal and expected way to live.
Lesson 3: I can be grateful and content while living on a whole lot less.
Okay, so this is the obvious lesson but, listen, over 1 billion people live on less than $1.25 per day… that’s poverty! We meet people regularly, when we travel, who are frequently hungry with no remedy. Worse than that… okay, never mind for now… you get the point of gratitude and contentment!
Lesson 4: God rewards faith among the poor and rich alike.
I see amazing results of faith at work, among the poor, lifting people emotionally, spiritually, and opening doors for God to provide in miraculous ways. My friend, John, who grew up in the poorest of families, has seen God move him into blessing after blessing as he has believed the promises of God. God is a rewarder of those who trust Him—for all of us!
Lesson 5: Living for the Kingdom of God makes sense (or, is the only sensible way to live).
Poverty, and the degradation that goes with, are great reminders of the brokenness of this world. While it is Jesus’ purpose to work through us to bring Kingdom wholeness to everyone now, we also live in the certainty that His Kingdom, ultimately, will usher in a far better world. This shifts all of my priorities, dreams, and agendas toward that Kingdom!
Love & Gratitude,
Roger & Brooks
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