Urban poverty is massive in many of our metropolis. Nearly one–half of African and Asian populations are becoming urbanites, and more than three–fourths already of Latin America is. The massive exodus from the rural areas to the cities, motivated by poverty, war, tribal conflicts or simply by the dream of a better future for individuals and families, is a reality. This massive influx into the cities has not translated into a homogeneous society but rather created not only homelessness, but massive slum areas around the cities.
Opulence and fine living stand side–by–side with masses of people fighting for survival and living in degrading conditions. Inadequate housing, along with limited access to water, sanitation, and other city services, like garbage collection, are only part of the daily struggle of many. The greatest stigma they suffer is very often the neglect, indifference and apathy of many who simply prefer to ignore their needs.
No wonder the world was fascinated by the picture of a homeless man, Hillman, who was photographed being given a pair of boots (worth $100) by a New York City police officer in Times Square on a bitterly cold day. Within a day or two, the photo was viewed by millions. It was a sporadic act of kindness, lauded by many. In the coldness of a metropolis, such as N.Y. City, with individualism, anonymity and indifference on the rise, where the homeless are so easily objectified, people can still be moved by the simple act of clothing another human being. Indeed, the human heart is still warmed by mercy, compassion and generosity. This simple act of compassion becomes a sacramental encounter between two worlds so close yet so far apart – the rich and the poor; the affluent and the destitute; the insider and the outsider; the one who can help and the one who is in need of help.
To bridge the gap, to foster these sacramental encounters, to break away with indifference fostering compassion, care, inclusion and nurturing respect for all human beings… Aren’t these the mission of the Church? Good is God! Goodness will always, and in every circumstance, portray a vivid and credible image of a God who continues to break barriers of discrimination, isolation and indifference. Urban mission challenges the Church to warm the hearts of believers and non–believers as well, with genuine compassion, love and service, kneeling down before the poverty of millions neglected in our streets or in marginalized communities in slums, clothing them with dignity and respect, bridging the gap created by our “blindness” and indifference.
“The Blind Side” movie, which depicts the remarkable true story of American football star, Michael Oher, lays it out clearly: two worlds gaped by indifference but bridged by goodness. Taken by a well–to–do family and offered a second chance in life, a homeless teen grows to become a star athlete. The “blind side” of indifference is given light by the glow of goodness.
Often, during His ministry, Jesus spoke of having hearts that could discern and feel, ears that are capable of hearing, and eyes that could truly see. Our urban society, our church, you and me, have to conquer our own “blind side.” So, one day, we may truly sing: “Amazing grace…I was blind but now I see!”
