Homeless at Harvard: Part Two

October 13, 2009

Continued from Page 2

I use "people in the mainstream" rather than solely "Christians" because relationships between the rich and poor are important no matter what one's religious beliefs. I saw that this summer. Homeless persons, for example, can benefit from relationships with anyone who is genuinely interested in establishing friendship. In addition, I was influenced by a non-Christian colleague who shared once in a conversation that framing my work or argument from a Christian perspective can be a turnoff to those who do not embrace Christianity. I can therefore share the importance of building relationships, using Jesus as a model of one who did this, and be even more effective than prefacing my argument with Jesus' actions as a model for all people. Yes, I wish to encourage Christians to be Christ to the outcast. But I also wish for anyone to build relationship with the outcast; perhaps then, even those who do not identify as Christians will share Christ, through human love, without even knowing it.

A final note: Even through answering these questions in the relatively full way that I have, I recognize that the ways in which I approached, thought about, or understood my summer experience, were not black and white. My time this summer was one speck in a kaleidoscope of experiences that have enriched me. I hope to use the experience to help others, sharing it in ways so they may be enriched, as well. My experience this summer has been influential to me, hopefully bringing me to a new place in my life and my concern for social causes.

John Frame has a diverse educational background in criminal justice, leadership, business administration, public administration, and theology. He will be graduating with a Master of Theology (Th.M.) degree from Harvard Divinity School.

Page: 3 of 3

10/13/2009 4:00:00 AM

Faith on Campus

Mission

Society

Christianity

Evangelicalism

more at patheos

Ultimate Validation

Richard Simmons

The Gospel of John: The Five Thousand and the Fifth Sign

Gabriel Blanchard

6 Lessons I Learned from a Thief

Gregory T. Smith

For me, a kind of pilgrimage

Dan Peterson

About

Patheos Logo Patheos Explore the world's faith through different perspectives on religion and spirituality! Patheos has the views of the prevalent religions and spiritualities of the world.

Ad-Free & Subscriber Log-In Subscription Support

Subscription Support Ad-Free & Subscriber Log-In

Follow Patheos