Leroy Barber's Blog
Privilege Denied / 04.28.09, 10:24 AM
Spring in Atlanta is simply beautiful. The trees and flowers begin to blossom, and the sunshine and temperature are perfect for taking a walk. The mood is light as people spend more time outdoors. Spring is also a time when we experience many thunderstorms as cold and warm fronts collide; quite frequently our electricity goes out because of tree limbs falling on power lines throughout the neighborhood.
This past week we lost power one morning after a heavy storm. I called my wife to check on the status of the power as I headed home from an evening meeting only to find out that the power was still out. My immediate thought was that we should go somewhere for dinner, so I picked up my wife and son to head out of the neighborhood. While at the restaurant, I made sure to charge my computer so I could use it at home. We also stopped for candles on the drive back to our house. With candles in hand, a fully charged computer available, and full stomachs, we were set for the evening. The darkness descended on our neighborhood, and as it did, so did God’s spirit in the form of a question: “Are your neighbors okay?” I was convicted by the question as I reflected back on my evening. I had a car and the resources to go out to dinner, buy candles, and charge my computer. My knee jerk reaction to the crisis of not having power for 14 hours was to create comfort for myself and my family. I had not thought of my neighbors who may have needed food but had no car to go buy some. I had not thought to buy extra candles to take to my neighbors if they needed them. I used my power and privilege for myself.
I immediately went to the store, purchased candles, and went around the neighborhood asking people if they needed them. It was no surprise at that point to find people sitting on their steps in front of dark houses. I asked the first woman I saw if she needed candles. Not only did she need candles, she had asthma and her breathing machine was down because of the power. She needed my phone to call an ambulance. At the next house there was a dad sitting on the steps with his sons; they were so grateful for the candles that his sons cheered. I wish I could say that this concern for my neighbors was my first response, but it was not.
The message of the cross became even more powerful for me that evening. How much more incredible is it that Jesus denied himself of privilege to die for us. I am reminded of the scene between Jesus and Pilate when Pilate says, “I have the power to save you,” and Jesus responds, “You have no power but the power I have given you.” Jesus was well aware of his power and privilege yet made decisions to suffer with and for us. I cannot help but think that Jesus would have stayed in his neighborhood, ate what was there, let his computer run out of battery, and sat with his neighbors in the darkness. In fact, I think that is what he did.
I was also reminded of our team members who decide to live on little, catch public transportation, serve their neighborhoods, and scrub toilets – as one Chicago team member who volunteers at a shelter tells me – not because they have to but because they are called to. Thank you for supporting our work with your prayers and financial support. Please continue to send your resources to connect with those who are suffering.
With Love, Appreciation and Thanks,
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Leroy,
Our son, Clay Carson (Chicaco – Englewood Team) asked for our prayers today on behalf of the Atlanta team and the young woman who was stabbed. Please know that we are lifting all of you up. As a parent of a participant, I am even more convicted when hearing this story that our young people are exactly where they should be living out God’s call on each of their lives. We are so thankful for MY and the impact this year has had on our entire family! May God continue to bless you and MY and may He continue to do what only He can!!
By Kelli Carson / May 29, 02:43 PM / #