It looks like people aren’t happy with Rev. Tim Jones of England. He apparently told his congregation that it was okay for the poor to shoplift as long as it was from large chains and not small family owned businesses. Meaning I could steal from Walmart but not the corner store in my town.
And being that I can relate to tough times, I wondered and had to agree. If it came down to it and you could not feed your children, would you steal food?
I think I would. I’d steal before I resorted to any other form of illegal activity that’s for sure. The problem is, that it’s still not right or justified. What happens to me if I am caught? I’d end up in an even worse situation with either a ticket or jail or whatever you get for stealing food. What would happen to my daughter? Further, what does that teach my daughter?
I’m thankful that I’ve never been in a situation this desperate. I know that my family would help and as the article mentions, there are charitable organizations and agencies that are specifically there to help in desperate times. I found it strange that the Reverend didn’t mention asking your church for help. Churches have been helping people for centuries. He also didn’t mention what kind of products are acceptable to steal. Does that mean if you’re poor you can steal clothing, cosmetics, household goods? The only stipulation in the article is that a person isn’t greedy and only steals what they need. Really?
Another problem with this thought is that we can conform and change the rules to whatever is convenient for us. Isn’t there a commandment that states “thou shalt not steal”? It doesn’t hold provisions for poor people, not that I’m a biblical scholar, I’m just guessing. What about thou shalt not commit adultery… unless you’re Tiger Woods? Okay, that’s a stretch.
I understand it, though. I think if a person were desperate enough, he could steal food for his family and God would even forgive him. I don’t think it’s ever right though.
Places to Check if you Need Help With Food:
Check the local food shelf
Ask your church or any churches in your area
Social Services/Human Services/Family Services-you may qualify for emergency food stamps and assistance.
I don’t know, unless I’ve missed something. Is there any time that you think stealing would be okay?