Finding Hope, Ending Hunger on Both Sides of the Border: A Bilingual Latino Devotional - Flipbook - Page 16
HUNGER IN THE UNITED STATES
Biblical Reflection
s a pastor, I hear all about the sins that beset people like pride, greed, wrath, envy, lust,
and gluttony. Interestingly, I have never heard anyone confess the sin of partiality.
James 2 talks about this often unknown, forgotten, ignored, or unseen sin. It is the type
of partiality that believes that one group is superior or has more value than the other. It is a sinful
distinction that denies the image of God in others. Partiality can seep into our lives in subtle ways and
manifests itself in the choices we make, who we talk to, pay attention to, or care for.
Partiality exists when people struggling with hunger and malnutrition are ignored. Partiality reigns when
people living in poverty are discounted and shunned. Sadly, partiality is seen all over the United States
when nearly 37 percent of Latino households with children struggle to put food on the table. Thankfully,
James provided the antidote to resisting partiality by reiterating the words of Jesus that we must love our
neighbor as we love ourselves.
The church cannot allow itself to be plagued with the same vices as those in James’ day who let their
selfish gains and desires outweigh love. When we love people as ourselves, we want for them what we
want for ourselves. When we love our neighbor, we desire their flourishing and prosperity.
May we heed James’ words and “show no partiality as we hold the faith in our Lord Jesus Christ, the Lord
of glory” (James 2:1).
Reflection Questions
1. Have we unintentionally said to our brothers and sisters in need, “Go in peace, be warmed and
filled,” without giving them the things they need for the body?
2. Have our preferences in any way outweighed our love for others?
3. Have we decided that it is easier to provide a meal today rather than fix the partiality that leaves
children and families hungry?
Prayer
Lord, help us to follow your commandment of loving our neighbor as we love ourselves. Help us to
heed your word and stand alongside those facing hunger and satisfy the needs of the oppressed. If the
sin of partiality comes knocking at our door—may we stand firm in your word—and reject it. Help us
understand that when we give a banquet and invite the poor, the crippled, the lame, the blind—we will
be blessed. In Jesus’ name! Amen.
Call to Action
Love your neighbor unconditionally by advocating before Congress to ensure impartiality that allows all
parents to feed their children at home and abroad.
Rev. Jeanette Salguero is senior vice president at the National Latino Evangelical Coalition (NaLEC).
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