A while back, I heard a quote where a Christian defined himself as “just a beggar telling other beggars where to find bread.” I love the quote and hope it is a statement that would define my life as well—for I am, indeed, a broken and needy woman who has found my joy and sustenance in Jesus and who desires to point others to him so they might find the same. But, I know I often fall far short of living a life that reflects that truth. Too often, I and other Christians look more like self-righteous bystanders—covering our true “beggar” identity with a false, lofty one, and exchanging our compassion for our fellow beggars with an air of judgment.
But, this is not like Jesus—the only one who is truly righteous and able to judge did not look down on us with disdain but with great love, forgiveness, and compassion and with great eagerness to provide for our deepest need. He said, “I came not to call the righteous, but sinners” (Mark 2:17). And, “I will not reject anyone who comes to me” (John 6:37). “I am the bread of life; whoever comes to me shall not hunger, and whoever believes in me shall never thirst” (John 6:35).
I know that for me, Jesus has certainly been my sustenance through every mountain and valley, every twist and turn. He has been more than enough. He has been my joy, my peace, my provider, my hope, and my Savior. I cannot plumb the depths of his steadfast love for me or exhaust his immeasurable grace. And, this is His response to anyone who would come to him! So, from one beggar to another, I’ll point you to the “Bread of Life” and encourage you to come to Him today with every need and desire. I am confident He will welcome you, however you are, with compassion and “provide for every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:19).
By Katie Miller
For more blog posts by Katie Miller, click HERE
