I spoke with someone last night at church about how truly blessed we are. Our conversation started with your typical: "Hey, how’s it going?" "Fine, You?" "Can’t complain. Who really wants to listen anyway?" That’s my typical response anyway. Well this person went on to say "what is there really to complain about? We are so blessed." I agreed and said something about living in midtown Memphis and just being able to drive around the corner and see that fact. For those unfamiliar with the area, Midtown is an extreme mix of moderate-great affluence to massive amounts of poverty. After I said something about that fact, this person quickly said "yeah, there are a lot of panhandlers around there." I didn’t say anything, but it really bothered me. These ‘panhandlers’ are exactly who we as Christians are supposed to be helping, not ignoring. I mean they are real people. Sure, they probably made a big mistake that landed them where they are, but who among us hasn’t? Each person we see standing on the corner, begging for help, at least at one point, has had a family, has probably been loved, and wants nothing more now than to be loved. Sure, they need to have their need taken care of, but more than anything they need love like the rest of us. Can you imagine what your own self worth would be like? I remember watching my dad as we went through bankruptcy. The pain. The drinking. All dreams shattered. But he turned to Christ and asked for forgiveness and to have the burden lifted, and he made it through. My dad was surrounded by people who were praying for him, loving him, and supporting him. I know, first hand, that this is what the poor of any city need. I work World Vision to do my part globally, but I know I need to do more, especially in my own hurting city. Pray for Memphis. Pray for me. Pray for your own town. Pray for the poor. Pray for God to show each of us a way to make a difference where we are.