Seek to make life better for those in need

By Rev. Garth Duke-Barton, Conference Secretary for Global Ministries

We often think of missions as something done overseas or in a distant part of our country. There are multiple missions that happen in places we think would be immune to the effects of poverty.

If we lived in Washington, D.C., the seat of our government, we would find Christ House Medical Services Advance #381215. They provide comprehensive and compassionate care for people with acute medical needs who are experiencing homelessness. There are indeed homeless in the Washington, D.C. area. They are usually hidden when cameras are rolling. The church sees them and helps them, as we are able.

If we lived in Mississippi, not terribly far from or different than us, we would find people in need, too. The Gulfside Association, Inc. Advance #760235 helps by advocating for underserved communities to address poverty, education, and leadership. They have served in Jackson, Miss. for more than 100 years. They not only help with food and home repair, they also help people go to college.

Then there is Hinton Rural Life Center Advance #731372. It is in North Carolina providing home repair to address substandard housing issues that are linked to poor health. You wouldn’t think such a beautiful place can have poverty when you look at their campus pictures, but it is there and they have found the people in need.

There are so many other places where the church serves in the world. We may not be aware of the missional needs around us. Look and see where a local mission might be of use. Then let’s get our hands dirty as we seek to make life better for those in need.

Rev. Garth Duke-Barton, pastor of Epworth United Methodist Church in Jesup, also serves as Conference Secretary for Global Ministries.