“Do Not Exploit The Poor And Needy!”

“Do Not Exploit The Poor And Needy!”(Dt.24:14-15).
When you enter some homes it is easy to distinguish between biological children and foster children or house-helps. In such homes nonbiological children are overworked, undernourished and cheaply clothed.
Those we call house-helps are usually from poor backgrounds. When we go looking for them we promise the parents how we would send them to school or help them learn a trade. But once they are with us we treat them as if they are less than humans.
How can you be comfortable when a child who is the age of your own children is slaving for you and your children, yet your children are attending school while such a child is not?
Why would a foster child eat from a plastic plate in the kitchen while you and your children eat from enamel plates on the table? Why would your boy-boy quarter be sparsely furnished as if those who live there have a different colour of blood?
Worst of it is that in the beginning we tell the parents that we would establish these children after a period of time, but over time it becomes a problem.
Many village masons, carpenters, plumbers, etc would tell you that Mr So and So is still owing them money for the work they did for them. How come you have money to buy all the building materials but when it comes to paying the technicians, the money is not there?
Those who earn only a minimum package go to the same market like the rest of us. Why deprive them of their hard-earned low income?
When you cheat a poor and needy person you are sinning before God. The cry of the exploited does not go unheard!
Today we are reminded: “Do not take advantage of a hired man who is poor and needy…Pay him his wages each day before sunset, because he is poor and is counting on it. Otherwise he may cry to the LORD against you, and you will be guilty of sin.”
My friend, this message is not limited to daily pay only. Bottom line is: Do not exploit the less privileged! Our God is a God of justice who is always on the side of the oppressed and exploited. Do not let the poor and needy cry out to him.
And to you the wage earner, do not be an eyeservant. Do the work that is commensurate to the wage that you expect and God will bless the little that you earn.
Prayer of the week: Holy Spirit equip us with the spirit of equity and justice. Amen!
Welcome back to a new working day and week! Have a blessed day and week! Peace be with you!
Rev Babila Fochang.