Gifts

As I travel around, I sometimes come across people on street corners asking for money. If I am at the right spot in the lane, I hand some money through the window of my vehicle from my shirt pocket. I usually get a “God bless you” from them but actually it’s God who has blessed them. I say “the moneys from God. Take care of yourself”. That’s when I get that “deer in the headlights” look. I read somewhere that money shouldn’t be given to street people. They might use the money for supporting an addiction or some other unhealthy use. I thought about that, but I couldn’t see me handing a hamburger through the window for a number of reasons. So, I thought maybe a gift card would work. After seeing the locations of the restaurants, I could see that wouldn’t work. I guess I’m comfortable just handing over money. The gift I received is just being passed along. Jesus said give to those who beg and under these circumstances money seems to work. Ten lepers approached Jesus and asked to be healed. He healed them and they went on their way. But one came back praising Him and thanking God. Jesus asked about the other nine. They didn’t show up. I wonder how many of the street people look at the money and thank God for the gift. A gift is something you give with no strings attached. It’s not up to me to judge or condemn. I just pass along what was given to me. It’s called love your neighbor.