I’ve never really put language to some of the values that both Broken Hearts and Basileia deem highly important. But including the poor, outcasts, etc in our everyday life is referred to by David Ruis as “Embracing the poor at the heart of community.” Meaning, the poor are not an outreach. They are to be part of our lives and communities, our hang outs, our daily interactions.
I’ve resonated with the idea since I first heard it at Basileia. What I didn’t realize, however, was how hard of a concept it is for people (including me) to really live. It’s awkward; abnormal. Yet it is crucial.
I meet some wacky people on the street. To me, that’s become normal. And if it’s in an “outreach” capacity, Christians can accept and love the weird and different. But start crossing lines into daily life and it gets uncomfortable. Invite those people to dinner or a night out with your normal group of friends or family, and people might not be sure what to do. Or they treat them well, but can be upset that someone that takes more patience and understanding has encroached on their fun.
There is a major difference between “outreach” and including people in our daily lives. And so few people who actually do both well.
I was reflecting on this after bringing a friend from the street along to dinner with some friends I hadn’t seen in a while. In all honesty, I just wanted some quality time with my friends, but I also knew it was important to invite this person along. He came and it all went well, but I still knew that it was a bit awkward for them (and me at times, too). When it’s part of “ministry” you expect strange people and difficult conversations…but in the middle of normal life it’s awkward, even for passionate Christians. It shouldn’t be that way, but it is. Even to bring them to church can make people uncomfortable. It is rare for people to embrace the abnormal and bring them into community.
Anita Ruis once mentioned something about bringing all kinds of people into gatherings and just letting others be uncomfortable with it. Which was like turning a light on in my head. There’s nothing wrong with a little discomfort. How else will we learn? I know that’s how I did (and still do).
What is amazing for me to see is that, even if “church” or “Christian” situations might be slightly awkward or boring for someone living the street life, they often seem to enjoy it. God frequently uses those times to teach and grow all of us, and make those who don’t know Him more accepting of the idea of following Christ. Because they see love given to them and lived out among each other, and a new way of living. It can be a long process, but God’s will work in and through it.
I rejoice to see a community at Basileia who is beginning to live and act this way, and who I believe will continue to more and more as we walk this journey together….for the cause of Christ.
