I woke up a bit earlier than usual this morning, so I had some time to visit the News-Leader's online edition. I came across an article about the AIDS Project of the Ozarks (APO). The APO "seeks to meet this need (basic hygiene items) for those struggling with HIV/AIDS in 29 countries across southwest Missouri through their pantry." (link to article) The article highlights some of the needed items of the APO pantry. These include such basic items as toilet paper, toothpaste and disposable razors. Things most of use multiple times a day without so much as a second thought. Yet, to many who suffer from HIV/AIDS, these items can be hard to afford after paying medical bills.
How sad it is that in a country as rich as America that claims to be a Christian nation, there should be any segment of our population that cannot access such basic hygiene items. Jerry Lewis telethon for MDA, Turkey Trot to benefit the Developmental Center of the Ozarks, etc. All these are worthwhile causes, but a bit more glamorous than taking box full of toothpaste to the APO pantry. This Sunday I rode in the Toys for Tots motorcycle ride. There were over 900 motorcyclists riding down Glenstone with Transformers, Teddy bears and board games that would be donated to children this Christmas. Once again, a worthwhile cause. But I wonder how many of us would have ridden in 34 degree weather with an eight pack of toilet paper strapped to our bikes to help out HIV/AIDS patients. How many church members would be willing give up $5 a cup Starbucks for a month in order to purchase razors, soap and laundry detergent for someone with AIDS?
If the Church really wants to affect change in America, we have got to reach out to those that a large segment of society would like to ignore. Regardless of how a person contracted HIV/AIDS, they are still a human being who is loved by God and deserves the dignity of not having to choose between a doctor's visit and dental hygiene.
For those who justify ignoring HIV patients as people receiving the just desserts for lifestyle choices, consider this. . .
Would you turn your back on the deacon who is having a triple bypass because he was 30 pounds overweight and didn't exercise? That was a lifestyle choice. What about the Godly neighbor lady who is suffering from emphysema because she smoked for 20 years. You gonna' ignore her because it was a lifestyle choice?
As Christians we must guard against getting caught up in the "why" of a person's condition, and focus on what God would have us do to minister to that person. Perhaps stockings could be a little lighter and the gift stack a bit shorter in our homes so we can help meet the needs of those many would like to ignore.
Rant over.
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