Yup, I’ve been in two churches now where similar things have happened. We have to be wise as a serpent, gentle as a dove. I used to run a Food Closet for our church for the neighborhood, and I got to know the clients. Some few would hang around church on Sundays looking for money/ handouts, telling ‘sad tales.’ People would ask me, ‘Should I help him?” And I’d say, “I can tell you, word for word, his story. I personally do not believe it.’
Sentimentality can get one in so much trouble.
Which reminds me of that great old quote from Oscar Wilde, "Sentimentality is loving people more than God would."
Sentimentality can get one in so much trouble.
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Indeed. It can also be harmful at times just handing out money. Some people are in shelters or programs and they are getting help. When given cash they may abandon the help they were receiving for drugs and the street.
I think it is always handy to have a few printed cards of places to get help, shelters, food, and such. Share the good news, offer to arrange for them to get to or contact a source of help. Donate to the places that specialize in this help.