Toxic Charity?

The hospitality class at church read Toxic Charity by Robert D. Lupton. I did not make it to any of those nights of discussion, but I did read at home. Most of the time I kept my head cocked to the side wondering if I could come into agreement with him.

Re-neighboring as a mission endeavor was a new concept for me to consider. The author and his family choose to buy a house in a low income area to serve those living there - serve as in befriending and entering into life with them. 

Can I put us in that category living here in the hotel?

We have walked through a shooting of a child on the premises with the staff. Watched drug deals go down outside our window wondering about safety yet still calling the police. Yet on the other hand, some would say we are poor. We have benefited from the help of government, family, friend, and stranger.

One new friend asked me, "Why did you choose a hotel to live in?

"Because it was the Lord's direction to me," I responded. 

She said, "Then you can say he sent you there."

Why then do I feel shame sometimes and confidence other times? I wonder if the author would see me as one in need of help or as a helper. 

Can you be both?  I don't remember that possibility in the book. He seemed to present an either/or case.  You were either the giver or the receiver.

Now here is the hardest part.  I have harshly judged the poor and the needy.  I have been the mighty missionary going oversees.  I had a haughty attitude that the Lord has adjusted during the now four plus years we have been out of our house. 

As I think back over the book, what I missed between the lines was humility. Writing a book takes courage, and I commend Mr. Lupton for stepping out on that limb with a very difficult subject.  You do have me re-thinking.