knock, knock, knocking

I so enjoy Christian Aid Week for many reasons, but today have been reflecting on how for me it creates a whole host of opportunities to love people. Which is what I’m beginning to realise is all my life is about, actually.

Re-distributing wealth is only a small part of why I collect really. What I like most is the chances to connect with people, to hear some of their current stories and concerns. Having an envelope in my hand legitimises knocking on their door and gives us a starting focus. And since lots of people have concerns around money, and/or about injustice, it can be a great conversation starter.

So I wondered whether I should do this all the time? I quickly realised tho that one of the main things I like is that I am knocking on doors in my community, and connecting with people I see in other contexts, and that is what makes it real. It wouldn’t work for me going elsewhere, week after week. I like that there are some people I have visited annually for the last dozen years. I like welcoming people when I find out they’ve just moved in to the street. Yes there are disheartening moments but these for me are more than outweighed when people say they’re glad that we’re out collecting – the fact that we can be bothered seems to bring hope to people.

I also enjoy the opportunity afforded by being one of a team of collectors across my town, as I get to share in their delights, and their frustrations. I guess it brings hope to me, knowing there are lots of us who will not sit back and say nothing can be done to end poverty. Despite being tired, and unsure of what is behind the closed door, we’re willing to go and find out.

And even tho it isn’t all about the money, I also know the amount collected gets used in life changing ways. I’m already looking forwards to doing it all over again next year!!