A homeless man spends time in our local library. One afternoon, while I was writing there, I took a lunch break. After I finished the first half of a turkey and Swiss cheese sandwich, an image of the mans face came to mind. A few minutes later, I offered him the untouched part of my lunch. He accepted.
This brief encounter made me realize that with all that God has given me, I needed to do more to help those who are less fortunate. Later, as I thought about this, I read Moses instructions on providing for the poor. He told the Israelites: Do not shut your hand from your poor brother, but . . . open your hand wide to him (Deut. 15:7-8). An open hand symbolizes the way God wanted His nation to provide for impoverished peoplewillingly and freely. No excuses, no holding back (v.9). God had given to them, and He wanted them to give generously enough to supply whatever was sufficient for the need (v.8).
When we offer open-handed help to the poor, God blesses us for our kindness (Ps. 41:1-3; Prov. 19:17). With His leading, consider how you might extend your soul to the hungry (Isa. 58:10) and freely give to help others in Jesus name.
Read: Deuteronomy 15:7-11
Our local Salvation Army is desperate to have bell ringers for their red Kettles. Usually there are people seeking the jobs. This year they declared on TV, only 6 people applied.
Salvation Army has a good presence in the community. When I hear about “the Boys And Girls” organization, the CEO has a salary of $1,000,000.00, and there are others the same for charitable organizations, it is off putting to my mind. I know it is common now for high salaries to be paid according to the incomes of the organization. Something is amiss helping the down and out and desperate while the head leaders think they are greatly superior.
Sorry for the rant.
I contribute to the Salvation Army a few times a year. I am not certain they give “the Gospel message” to the people that come hungry for meals. They do keep people from freezing during frigid weather conditions, have summer camp for the youths, blankets and beds, clothes, food, etc.