2:213 – Mr. Wendal – Do You Know Him?

#faithbites #faithjourney Wendal

Are you familiar with the 1992 song, Mr. Wendal, by Arrested Development?

It’s a moving song about how many see homeless people as bums and how society doesn’t value them. But the narrator, realizes giving money to him isn’t charity as Mr. Wendal gives him knowledge from his many years of life.

How often do we write off the poor, those not like us, and those we think are less than us? We somehow are better than them. We think helping them is throwing away our money, rather than helping someone in need.

Satan tricks us into not helping and thinking these people are less than human. Just remember, you never know who is out there, who God put in your life, and how important they are. Don’t forget the Mr. Wendals in our lives.

Scripture

• Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute. Speak up and judge fairly; defend the rights of the poor and needy. – Proverbs 31:8-9
• A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed. – Proverbs 11:6
• Whoever oppresses the poor shows contempt for their Maker, but whoever is kind to the needy honors God. – Proverbs 14:21

Reflection

When looking for verses for tonight, I was amazed at how many Proverbs verses came up. Most speak about being kind to the unfortunate, giving what you can, helping them. Not helping them is showing contempt to God.

I admit, I’ve walked by homeless people all the time. Sometimes I give, sometimes, I don’t. Most times, I at least say God bless. But I could do more.

These are people who have families, lives, and experiences. Imagine the knowledge the could give us, if we listened. Sure, we need to safe but when we do the Lord’s work, he will protect us.

Charge

Next time you see a Mr. Or Mrs. Wendal, talk to them. See if you can get them a drink or a sandwich. It may mean no snack for you but a lot more to them. You never know how they can impact your life and you theirs.

Prayer

Lord, remind us that everything we have is from you. And that all people, especially the unfortunate, are your children. Help us to give unselfishly of our time, talent, and treasure. Lord Jesus, create in us a generous heart to help those who aren’t as fortunate as us. We can and should help. In your Glorious name, Amen.