We Are All Beggars PDF Print E-mail
Written by Rev. Peter Cusick   
The first time I remember this happening was back in the late 1980's.  I had arrived in Warsaw, Poland for a week of mission work.  The next day I was to journey to the southern tip of Poland, just across from the Czechoslovakian border.  We needed to spend a day in Warsaw for some orientation and direction from our leader.  Once we were out in public, we were immediately recognized as westerners.  Once recognized as westerners, it was also assumed--we had money!  So, I experienced for the first time someone actually begging me for money.

The other time that stands out in my mind happened in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.  Again, we kind of stood out like a sore thumb and had people rushing towards us for money.  Often, what would happen is the little Ethiopian children would come running up to us and sing a cute little song in the English language.  The only English they knew was the song, and with grins the children would sing and then extend their hands for money.

Seeing the people begging for money was not what I was used to.  Now, we are seeing that even in our own culture.  But, I'm not sure 'beggar' is the nicest word.  Beggar seems to be a hurtful word.  It conjures up--the guy needs a bath!  Then I realize that I personally have never begged for anything.  Well actually, that's not true.  I begged one boss for a raise when I was 17, and he laughed and said "No!"  But, more to the point.  I actually have never had to beg for food, a place to sleep-or anything.  So, I don't really know what it's like to be a beggar.

Ah! But, I found something the other day that jumped out at me!  C.S. Lewis calls Christians "jolly beggars."  And as I process my spiritual condition, I understand "jolly beggar" is an apt description for me.  If God doesn't give me some grace--I'm cooked.  So, I guess I understand what being a beggar is all about!  And that, is something to think about.