A community of solidarity

The bronze sculpture by Timothy Schmalz, entitled ‘Homeless Jesus’, struck a chord in public imagination for a number of reasons. The figure huddled on a bench, face hidden by a blanket, bears the unmistakable scars of Christ on his feet, but otherwise could be any of the millions of people without a home worldwide.

Jesus told prospective disciples that ‘the Son of Man has nowhere to lay his head’ (Luke 9:58), and identified himself with those who are hungry and thirsty, those lacking in shelter and clothing, and those who are sick and imprisoned (Matthew 25:45).

Like Jesus, Moses could have clung to a lifestyle of honour, privilege and power and simply thanked God that he had escaped a life of slavery. But instead, he identified with those of his people who were oppressed. Although his initial violent anger was somewhat counter-productive, Moses later became an advocate and a leader in their liberation.

As we consider the ill-treatment and oppression of so many within our global community, we too have a choice as to how, and with whom, we will identify.

God of the downtrodden, thank you that you never forget or turn away from the plight of those who are suffering. Give me courage to stand in solidarity together with each group of people who are oppressed by others, even and especially when it comes at a cost to myself. Amen.