How The Soloist Reminds Us Of a Duet

There is no denying that homelessness is an epidemic in our nation, and even more so all over the world. With the massive economic problems that have arisen in the last year homelessness has also been on the rise. More and more families and individuals have lost jobs and homes. In lieu of this reality many have returned to the important discussion of how to help the homeless. The Soloist is part of this discussion, and its contribution is a beautiful one.

The Soloist is the story of Los Angeles Times journalist Steve Lopez (Robert Downey Jr.) who befriends a homeless man who also happens to be a Juilliard trained musician. Their friendship reveals some amazing things to us the viewers as we think about our role in helping the down-and-out. Throughout the film Lopez is trying to help his homeless friend, Nathaniel Ayers (played by Jamie Foxx). He wants to set up a psychological evaluation, he rents him an apartment, he trys to reconnect him with family, etc. But the whole process results in a strain on their relationship, and not much help to Ayers. The movie is beautiful in its implications. It is a testimonial to the idea that the most powerful way you can help a homeless person is by saying “hello.”

What The Soloist displays in full color is the humanity of homeless people. It is easy to read the statistics and see the massiveness of the problem and forget that these people, even those with mental handicaps, are made in the image of God and deserve respect, dignity, and love. Christians should be on the forefront of befriending the homeless because we understand these concepts better than others. Homelessness is a problem, but the homeless themselves are not! Laws that make it illegal to be homeless, that arrest people for being so, and aim to rid our cities of “street urchins” is not only ridiculous but ungodly. Christians need to have that personal touch as they seek to bring real help to these real human beings. The Soloist paints a beautiful picture of this kind of help, now if only Christians will grasp it!

Here are some real practical ways to get involved:

(1) Volunteer at your homeless shelter, but do more than dish out food and serve plates. Sit with the homeless and talk to them.

(2) Don’t give away change. Buy McDonalds and sit with them while they eat.

(3) Try to check on the same people regularly. Make it part of your routine to do something with them.

Be sure to share any other ideas you have.