Letter: Backs rescue mission effort

Dear Editor,

Not in “my” neighborhood.

How many times have we heard these words (or perhaps uttered them ourselves) when faced with the possibility of having something outside of our comfort zone appear in “our” neighborhood? Many of our children and grandchildren grew up with “Mr. Rogers” on TV, who was always asking the question, “Won’t you be my neighbor?”

But who exactly is “a neighbor?” Many of us would define a neighbor as one who lives on either side of us or across the street or maybe on the same block.

As a follower of Jesus Christ, we are called on to “love thy neighbor as thyself.” A disciple of Jesus asked him, “…who is my neighbor?” We learn in the story of the Good Samaritan that the neighbor was the one who showed mercy on the man who had been attacked by thieves and left for dead. This neighbor did not live next door to the man he helped or across the street or on the same block.

The Open Door Rescue Mission is hoping to open in the former Bear Buddies daycare building on the intersection of Beaudry Boulevard and Heggen Street. Its mission is “to be a source of rescue, refuge and hope … to the disadvantaged, needy and homeless … members of our community.” I am excited that Hudson will be home to the Open Door Rescue Mission. Although there have always been people in need among us, the economic conditions we are now experiencing have greatly increased those numbers.

There but for the grace of God go I.

Many of us are one step away from being in need. A divorce. A death. A job loss. A catastrophic illness.

I am so thankful that Tom and Barb Hennes have answered the call to help their neighbors. Who knows, they may be helping one of your friends or relatives or — even you.

Tags: opinion, hudson, letter, mission, neighborhood