The "Up and Outers"

I don't know if you hear it or sense it among Christian or Salvation Army circles...but I certainly do. There seems to be some sort of understanding that real ministry, that which God and William Booth intended is for the down and outers in the inner cities. People who are cold, and hungry, poor and homeless. And, while I agree that there is a definite need there I get a little put out when it is 'implied' that suburban ministry is not as important or needed. Speaking as one who lives in the suburbs and ministers in the suburbs I would argue that the needs are just as great.

Take for instance the story I shared below. People who live in nice homes, are employed, and drive good cars are suffering through broken, abusive relationships. Or take for instance my neighbour who looks weary and tells me she is exhausted. She works all day and comes home to a second full time job called 'parenting', she feels overwhelmed and can't keep up.

People who live on so called, 'easy street' are often running a rat race leading desperate and empty lives. A high percentage of these people suffer from depression. Many feel hopeless and lonely, only you would never be able to tell that by looking at the exterior. Their lives are envied by others and despised by themselves. Many lead high stress lives.

People in the suburbs are living through divorce and blended families. Many suffer from addictions just like inner-city folk. Chemical addictions as well as pornography. The majority of suburban homes are equipped with the internet which is exposing kids to things at a very young age not to mention the secrets that develop between husbands and wives, tearing them apart.

So, is ministry any less valid in the suburbs than in the inner cities...not at all! People are people and we all have hurts and needs. We are all wounded spirits.