Generosity Matters

Thinking “poor” is difficult for most of us. We have so much more than we need that it is difficult to understand what it is like to go without, be without, or do without. For most, the distance between a delicious meal and pangs of hunger is unimaginable. Many of us have never had to go without a meal much less gather morsels from a garbage can to survive.

I frequently hear stories of individuals who have invested some of their “things” in those who have represented themselves as poor only to find out that they had been “duped.” Some say they will never give again because they were fooled. I find this attitude disturbing.

There are times when I find myself “guarded” when people come to my office with a need for some “thing.” It might be for money to pay the utility bill, or milk to nourish a baby, or money for a loaf of bread and a jar of peanut butter. Often when I find myself questioning their motives I ask myself: “Who am I to be their judge?”

In Proverbs, there is a verse that says, “For God made both the rich and the poor.” With that in mind, what should my response be to those in need? Is my response an indication of how I would respond to Jesus if He came to me with a need and I did not recognize Him?

In Matthew’s Gospel Jesus said, “What you did to the least of these brothers of mine, you did it unto me.” If we fail to respond with compassion to those in need how can we expect God to hear us when we have needs?

When we see someone in need, let us never forget that God brought that one into our lives to help them somehow. It’s not an option. Rather, it's our obligation to do whatever we can.

Prayer: Lord, give us hearts that are sensitive to the needs of others. May we bless their lives as You have blest ours. May we do for others as You have done for us. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Scripture For Today: Proverbs 17:5 Whoever mocks the poor shows contempt for their Maker; whoever gloats over disaster will not go unpunished.