Troska o przybyszów i bezdomnych w Biblii

Abstract

Quoted biblical texts of the Old and New Testaments show homelessness as a consequence of the free choice to leave for God no current place in one’s life situation and the loss of security related with that. Moreover, homelessness is presented as a punishment for sins, as a consequence of misdeeds or as a result of circumstances that are not in the control of the person experiencing it. The texts call us to help the needy, including the homeless. They reminded Israelites of their stay in the foreign country, Egypt. The New Testament teaches us that we are all pilgrims in the way to heaven. During the Last Judgment, sensitivity to the poor will be an important criterion. The Supreme Judge will identify himself with the poor. The man in a difficult situation (homeless) may realize that life on earth is not the end. Eternity depends on our present deeds. One can atone for mistakes by accepting the difficulties of one’s current life. They may be the result of previous bad choices. If one accepts them in peace, he may become a participant in the suffering of Christ and prepare to share his eternal joy.