The Essential Jesus – Weekly Bible Readings Five Vulnerable Groups of God's Heart Widows · Orphans · Aliens · Poor · Sick Bible Readings Luke 17:11-19 — Jesus heals ten lepers, including a Samaritan Ephesians 2:11-19 — Remember that you were once strangers and aliens Deuteronomy 24:17-22 — Do not deprive the resident alien, the orphan, or the widow of justice; leave provision so that God may bless all your undertakings Deuteronomy 10:12-22 — God executes justice for the orphan and the widow and loves the stranger, providing food and clothing Leviticus 19:9-18 Luke 20:45–21:4 — Religious leaders devour widows’ houses; Jesus points to the widow’s offering Luke 18:35-43 — Jesus heals a blind beggar Matthew 19:29-33 — Jesus heals two blind beggars near Jericho James 1:19-27 — True religion is caring for widows and orphans Hebrews 13:1-3 — Hospitality to strangers; remembering those in prison Isaiah 1:11-17 — Learn to do good; seek justice, rescue the oppressed, defend the orphan, plead for the widow Key Quotes “See how they love one another” “When it comes to the way of Jesus there is no ‘other,’ only ‘brother.’” “This call to care for the vulnerable: it isn’t a burden. It’s a blessing.” Further Relfection by Pastor Josh When I traveled to Haiti, it was with the Haitian Timoun Foundation. It is a remarkable organization because it is rooted in a missional model of accompaniment. This model builds mutual, supportive partnership that walk alongside people to create lasting transformation in lives and communities. HTF sought out ministries like Wings of Hope that where Haitian people were already doing remarkable Christ-like ministry, then asked, “how can we support you?” This model of mission was radically different than models of the past (where outsiders come in, ‘fix’ the problem, and leave. Sometimes doing more harm than good). As Good Shepherd has discerned strategic partnerships over the past few years, we intentionally sought out organizations that held this believe in common. LifeWise StL builds lasting partnerships that walk with participants to create lasting transformation. Tree 4 Hope discovered though deep listening that one of the greatest needs in the community was educational opportunity for girls, hence Hope Academy was formed. The best part of serving with organizations like these is that those who serve are transformed, as well. The long-term, relational nature of missional accompaniment is a win-win situation for everyone. We learn from one another. God moves in the creative space between us. We begin to see the belovedness, the giftedness, the Imago Dei in one another. My Notes