Bible and Reality Poor but with Hope Prepared by: J. L. Caravias sj

When the poor cry out, the Lord hears and saves them from distress. Psalm 34:7 My prayer has gone up to God as I poured out my tears before him Job 16:20

Lord, you listen to the laments of the poor, you give them courage, you grant them a hearing. You give heed to the orphans and the oppressed. Let no human raise from earth and strike. Psalm 10:17-18

He gives shelter to the homeless sets the prisoners free. Psalm 68:7 The Lord is father of orphans and protector of widows. Psalm 68,6 He gives food to the hungry. Psalm 146:7

Who is like the Lord our God? He lifts up the poor from the dust and the needy from the ash heap. Psalm 113:7

Your strength is not in number nor your power in strong men for you are God of the humble, the defender of the little ones, the support of the weak, the protector of the abandoned, the savior of those in despair. Jude 9:11

God chose the poor of the world to receive the riches of faith. James 2:5

Find rest on God alone; from him comes my hope. He alone is my rock and my salvation. On God rests my salvation; with him as my stronghold, I shall not be overcome. Psalm 62:6-7 You alone, O Lord, make me feel safe and secure. Psalm 4:9

Fortunate those who mourn, they shall be conforted. Fortunate those who hunger and thirst for justice, for they shall be satisfied. Fortunate the merciful, for they shall find mercy. Fortunate those with a pure heart, for they shall see God. Fortunate are you when people insult and persecute you and speak all kinds of evil againt you because you are my followers. Be glad and joyful, for a great reward is kept for you in God. Mt 5:4-8.11f

The Mighty One his mercy extends to those who live in his presence. He has put down the mighty from their thrones and lifted up those who are downtrodden. He filled the hungry with good things but sent the rich away empty. Luke 1:49-53