The first reason I can think of is that we/I might have a personal need to help someone so that I can feel fulfilled. I don't mean that anyone needs to cut back on how much they help people. We need to do everything that we can to help when we see need in the world. However, I do think that we need to be aware of our motives, because if we do all this only to make ourselves feel good, then as soon as something else catches our attention we will move on, and then all those causes we were so involved in before will be left high and dry.
I have another reason for thinking that I need Africa. I think that I need the spirit of Africa. Now I am the first to admit that I do not know much about Africa. Actually, I can probably be called Africa-illiterate because I am so sheltered from that part of the world. But the statement that I need Africa reminds me of stories about China. Specifically, about the Christian church in China. Because of persecution and uncertainty in life, Christians in China have a firm grasp on what is important in life: relationships. The most important relationship in anyone's life is their relationship with God, but other relationships are those with our friends and family, and relationships with people in need. When you compare that with the priorities of Christians in America, it is sad. We value our stuff and our social status more than the people in our lives. We need this spirit in America.
Like I said, I do not know much about Africa. But if the suffering there has the same affect is has in the rest of the world, we really do need Africa more than Africa needs us. We need to change our spirit and attitude, because without the right outlook, none of the rest of it matters.
