Steven Colbert of the “The Colbert Report” is a comedic genius. Most comedic geniuses, in my semi-humble opinion, are strikingly funny because there is an element of perceived truth in what they actually say. The following Colbert quote (possessing possible, perceived truth) was in an attempt not to be so funny:
“If this is going to be a Christian nation that doesn’t help the poor, either we have to pretend that Jesus was just as selfish as we are, or we’ve got to acknowledge that He commanded us to love the poor and serve the needy without condition and then admit that we just don’t want to do it.”
Originally shared in December of 2010, the concept claimed by Colbert continues to gain traction. It’s actually a fascinating concept.
Here’s the challenge…
There currently exists significant social policy in which the stated motivation is to help the poor. The motive — at least that which is publicly stated — and which has been affirmed amidst these postings — is to abundantly assist the so-called “least of these.”
It’s a valid, compassionate motive. How can we care — how should we care — for the lesser among us? And perhaps the absolute best question that arises — in regard to the formation of actual policy — is how are we called to such care? Is it an individual or a corporate, government calling? Is it a natural outflow of our heart or an essential government mandate?
(… great question…)
What I find most interesting about Colbert’s claim, no less — dismissing the completely unsubstantiated facade that Jesus was selfish — is that he ties the call to help the poor to the person of Jesus Christ.
Let me get this straight…
Many of those who advocate social policy in which monies are usurped from the wealthy to go directly to the poor believe the act is exactly what Jesus has called us to do. That, too, is an excellent question with which each of us should wrestle.
I wonder then what Jesus meant when he said, “If you want to be perfect, go and sell all your possessions and give the money to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.”
Obviously, if we were to follow the call and command of the Savior of the world — again not distinguishing between the individual, corporate, and/or national calling — we would not hesitate to generously feed the hungry and care for the poor.
Yet herein lies the challenge. Many of the same people who passionately advocate for a feeding of the hungry and caring for the poor omit the origin of the calling. Many will call for compassionate action, yet they will simultaneously omit the name of Jesus Christ.
Which is it?
Are we to feed the hungry?
… care for the poor?
And thus, too, are we to acknowledge where the calling came from?
Or are we to believe it’s wise to follow such a claim, without ever acknowledging the calling’s origin?
Fascinating… yes, fascinating indeed.
Respectfully… always…
AR