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During the past several weeks, I have heard members of the news media talk about how homeowners in neighborhoods where foreclosures have occurred have complained that their homes are losing value because of the foreclosed homes. Since then, I have also heard members of the news media complain about Senator John McCain's intention to rescue individuals and families from foreclosure. It seems to me that Senator McCain's mortgage rescue plan is a rescue for ALL homeowners where foreclosures have occurred. Those in danger of or who have suffered foreclosure will get to keep their homes. Keeping their homes will mean the restoration of neighborhoods adversely affected by foreclosures. As foreclosed homes are maintained, other homes in the affected neighborhoods will experience an increase in property value. So all homeowners in neighborhoods where foreclosues occurred will benefit.
Through the television news media, I have also heard individuals complain that since they did not buy more house than they could afford and are faithfully paying their mortgage every month, those individuals and families who did otherwise should suffer the consequences. The truth is, no one knows what life has to offer. Persons who are "up" today could be "down" tomorrow. I am sure that in horrible circumstances, persons who complain about individuals and families troubled by foreclosures would be glad to have someone show them kindness and mercy.
In life, I have learned that it is better not to judge or deride persons going through unfortunate situations. Whether the situation is the individual's fault or no, it is better not to judge them or look down on them. During my lifetime, I have witnessed persons who looked down on others because of circumstances, experience far worse things than what they criticized or derided. The Bible says, be not deceived, God is not mocked, whatever a man sows, that shall he reap (Galatians 6:7). The Bible also says blessed are the merciful, for they shall obtain mercy (Matthew 5:7). With the stock market tanking, it is not unreasonable to imagine "well-to-do" persons who complain against others, end up in terrible circumstances.
In our present circumstances as a nation, we should be glad to show mercy on our fellow countrymen. With our nation in such debt, what if our national creditors call in their notes? What will we have to give them to pay the debt? Now is not the time to complain against our fellow countrymen who are or have experienced difficulty. Now is the time to show them kindness and mercy. For we do not know what the future holds. But we do know if we sow evil, we will reap evil.
(Note: This piece was written before November 4, 2008.)
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