Throw Away People

Today’s Readings:

AM  Psalm 102; Num. 20:1-13; Rom. 5:12-21; Matt. 20:29-34

Reflection:

I was at lunch with a dear friend when she mentioned a ministry that had been bringing her joy. “Tell me about it.” I said. “It’s at Canterbury United Methodist Church,” she replied. “We send books to prisoners. The letters from the prisoners requesting the books can be so moving.” Then she whipped out her phone and said, “Listen to what this one prisoner wrote,

‘I love to be taken out of here in the pages of a book.’”

I find myself ruminating on that conversation and the comment from the prisoner requesting more books. I’m especially focused on that one poignant line from a fellow human being sharing a passion that I have—reading. Perhaps I read for different reasons, but both of us experience the possibility of transcendence in “the pages of a book.”

What is niggling at me is that I sense we treat our prisoners as “throw away people.” The United States has the sixth highest incarceration rate in the world. Thankfully, our prison rate per 100,000 people has been on a slight decline. Yes, many of the people who are in prison are there for the protection of society. And yes, there need to be consequences for our actions. These are truths that help keep safety and order in society. AND, have we forgotten these are human beings?  Have we lost our hope for restoration?

In Matthew’s Gospel there are two blind men sitting by the roadside crying out for Jesus. Most likely, they are by the roadside hoping for people to give them food or money. When they hear Jesus is passing by, they cry out for healing. The crowd tries to silence these “throw away people.” Jesus acknowledges them and asks what they want from him. He notices them. He restores them to wholeness, and they follow him. 

I am encouraged and inspired by my generous friend to be mindful of the “throwaway people” in her midst. How might we, as followers of the Great Healer, encourage hope and restoration instead of just retribution? 

Grace and Peace,

Mary Bea+

You may learn about this ministry and read excerpts from primer’s letters here. 

Question for Self-Reflection:

Who do you walk past as if they do not matter? Where is God inviting you to participate in the restoration of another?