Week 537–Hearts on Fire Feet on the Move–Mark Raue–The Preferential Option for The Poor

Hearts on Fire Feet on the Move–Mark Raue–The Preferential Option for The Poor (One of the most consistent themes in the scriptures is the priority that must be given to the poor and needy. It was a hallmark of Jesus's words and actions. We read of the Last judgement where Jesus clearly emphasised that we will one day be judged, not for how dedicated we were to religious practise or ritual, but to how we treated the poor and outcast. Over the last 50 years or so this has become known as the preferential option for the poor. It is not a political option, nor is it an ideological option, no, the preferential option for the poor is at the centre of the Gospel. The ongoing debates in Australia about the cost of living, minimum wages, welfare payments and rent affordability affect everyone. However, those at the lowest end of the food chain are impacted most dramatically and in a truly Christian world would be prioritised before those who are well off are thought about. If we are genuinely trying to live a Christian life consistent with the teachings of Jesus in the Gospels, then preferencing the poor in our daily thinking and decision making is the only option, the only choice and the ultimate criteria upon which our lives will one day be judged.)