Mark 14:1-26

“You always have the poor, but you will not always have me.” Some use this verse to neglect caring for the poor. The attitude is sort of, “We’re always going to have the poor so why bother helping them? There will just be more poor taking their place.” It sounds pretty hard when put that way, but believe me, that is exactly the reality behind the mask.

Fortunately Jesus didn’t just say, “The poor you will always with you,” but He went on to say, “And you can help them anytime you want.” In other words if you really care about the poor you have ample opportunity to show it. If you don’t show it then you really don’t care.

Rich or poor are all invited to His table. There is no class status involved in the offer, “This is my body, take it.” “This is the blood of the covenant which is poured out for many.” Rich or poor. Democrat or Republican. Young or old. Big or small. Kind or mean. Educated or ignorant. The mourner and the joker. Easterner or Westerner. Pale or tan. Mod or Rocker. Man or woman. Fat or thin. Bald or hairy. North or South. Capitalists or Communists. Fast food junkie or Health food nut. For that matter, junkie or nut.

Hopefully you found one of these categories offensive and will think about it. If not, then think of an offensive category and insert that one. Then think about it. He did.