There’s a story in the Gospels that captures my heart every time I read it. Jesus sat at a well, speaking with a woman who had been cast aside by society. The barriers were clear: she was a Samaritan, a woman, and her past was complicated. But Jesus didn’t turn away. He saw her, really saw her, and He chose to meet her right where she was. He didn’t shy away from her brokenness; instead, He offered her living water—a message of hope and a new beginning.
As we mark World AIDS Day, I can’t help but think about this story. I wonder: How would Jesus respond today to the millions affected by HIV/AIDS? I believe He would offer us the same challenge He gave then—to see beyond the labels and statistics, to extend grace, and to offer the life-giving love that only He can give.
The Reality We Cannot Ignore
The numbers are hard to swallow. In South Africa alone, nearly 8 million people are living with HIV. The good news is that about 5.7 million of them are receiving treatment. But the gap is still staggering—more than 2 million are not on treatment. Even more concerning is the steady rise of new infections, particularly among young people aged 15 to 24. Despite widespread knowledge about HIV and access to resources, this age group remains especially vulnerable.
A Call for Compassion and Action
So, what should the Church be saying and doing about HIV/AIDS today? It’s not enough to merely acknowledge the problem. We need to respond in a way that reflects the heart of Jesus—a heart that sees, loves, and acts.
1. Say This: “We See You, and We Care”
Many living with HIV still face stigma, even within the walls of churches. This shouldn’t be so. We need to be a place where people can come as they are, where they can be seen, heard, and loved without judgment. Let’s speak words of hope and dignity. Let’s say to those affected: We see you, and we care. We must be willing to step into uncomfortable conversations and break the silence that allows fear and shame to thrive.
2. Do This: Encourage People to Access the Treatment Available
The numbers don’t lie. There is a gap—a gap of over 2 million people who aren’t receiving the treatment they need, even though it is freely and easily available at clinics across South Africa. This isn’t just a statistic; it’s a matter of life and death. As the body of Christ we have a responsibility to act, to encourage, and to inform. We must use our voices to break the barriers of stigma and misinformation, urging people to step forward and receive the care that is already there for them.
And while access to treatment in South Africa is widespread, we cannot forget our neighbours across the Southern Africa Territory—Lesotho, eSwatini, Namibia, and the island of St Helena. HIV/AIDS may affect these countries to different degrees, and the availability of support and treatment can vary significantly. The need for the Church to speak up and advocate for equitable healthcare is just as vital in these places. Let us raise our voices together, not only for South Africa but for every community in the Territory where access to support and treatment remains a pressing need.
3. Reach This Group: Speak Directly to the Youth
Our young people are at the center of this crisis. Despite knowing how HIV is spread, many are still contracting the virus. Why? Perhaps it’s because information alone isn’t enough. We need to engage them where they are, using the platforms they trust. The Church should be proactive in creating spaces—whether online or in person—where young people can learn, ask questions, and receive support without fear of judgment.
Love in Action: The Multiplier Effect
The government’s call for a focused approach to prevention through communication is one we should heed. But the Church has a unique voice and influence. When we partner our efforts with God’s message of unconditional love, we create a powerful multiplier effect. Let’s use every tool we have—our platforms, our relationships, our stories—to spread hope and life-saving information.
The Heart of Jesus, the Hands of His People
World AIDS Day is more than a date on the calendar. It’s a reminder of the calling we have as the body of Christ. Jesus didn’t turn away from those who were hurting; He moved towards them. He reached out, He listened, and He offered something the world couldn’t: a love that sees beyond circumstances and extends grace.
What can we do? We can be present. We can volunteer our time, support local HIV/AIDS initiatives, offer prayer and encouragement, and work to make our Corps places of refuge and healing. It’s about small, intentional acts of love that, when combined, make a big difference.
So let’s rise up with the heart of Jesus, meeting this crisis with compassion, truth, and the hope of the Gospel. Together, we can be part of the change our world so desperately needs. And in doing so, we reflect the love of the One who came not just to heal, but to make all things new.