Written by Chris Webb, a Benedictine Anglican Priest and author.
It is possible to be so self-absorbed and self-centered that we are blind to the needs, struggles, and pain of those around us; unfeeling and uncaring, we easily excuse ourselves from being involved in the lives of others. But as we are transformed into greater Christlikeness, another temptation rears its head—a more seductive and subtle temptation. We absorb ourselves in “justice,” in “society,” in “reforms.” We identify the issues and vigorously campaign. We speak out and make our voices heard. We become energetic activists for righteousness! Yet the truth is we have not learned to see, let alone love, the woman or the man—the individual human being whose life is so profoundly affected by the issues and causes over which we agitate…We need to get more personal. We need to learn to see people. I suggest spending an evening down at the soup kitchen or homeless shelter. But not cooking, cleaning, or serving. Instead, grab a bowl of soup and sit with the folks who come through the door. Chat with them. Ask about their lives. Where are they from? Where are their families? What do they do, day by day? Who are their friends? What are their interests, their stories, their memories? Begin to see them as people, not recipients or charity cases…Or perhaps you might spend a day with a drop-in for single mothers. Or in a prison. Wherever you live, there are places where you can meet the lost, the lonely, the troubled, the poor, the marginalized, the oppressed, and open yourself to their company and friendship.The compassionate life is, first and foremost, personal. It must be rooted in genuine, direct relationships, not nebulous issues. We cannot love causes. We can only love people—and this love is the root of all real, enduring justice and peace. As we walk in the footsteps of Jesus, we need to learn to see.
Then he turned toward the woman and said to Simon, “Do you see this woman? I came into your house. You did not give me any water for my feet, but she wet my feet with her tears and wiped them with her hair. [Luke 7:44]
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