Buechner once again gives an interesting insight into the reality that we often don't recognize.
IN A SENSE WE are all hungry and
in need, but most of us don't recognize it. With plenty to eat in the
deep freeze, with a roof over our heads and a car in the garage, we
assume that the empty feeling inside must be just a case of the blues
that can be cured by a weekend in the country or an extra martini at
lunch or the purchase of a color TV.
The poor, on the other
hand, are under no such delusion. When Jesus says, "Come unto me all ye
who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest" (Matthew
11:28), the poor stand a better chance than most of knowing what he's
talking about and knowing that he's talking to them. In desperation they
may even be willing to consider the possibility of accepting his offer.
This is perhaps why Jesus on several occasions called them peculiarly
blessed.
- Originally published in Wishful Thinking
