How do you respond?

I’m wondering how you all respond to panhandlers and beggars? Particularly, how do you talk with your children about these people in great need?

I think I need to do some study because I’m feeling a little shook after something that happened today …

I received a personal letter (two pages, written in pencil) from someone in Kenya who is in great need. Apparently, he had read an article I wrote in a Christian magazine, found my address, and wrote to beg for money for food, water, and shelter.

Yes, I know it could be an elaborate scam. In fact, that was my first thought. I pictured a horrible scene of small children being forced to write these pathetic letters with the hope that well-meaning Christians would send money to warlords or something. Could be.

I did check out the info. on snopes.com. (By the way–I truly hope that BEFORE you EVER forward an email with some “lost child” or “person in need” or “amazing story” that you first check out whether it is an urgan legend!! Or better yet–never forward emails.) And there was no entry for the contact information/name.

But I digress …

I know that poverty is all around us. I know that Christians are in need more than I could even imagine even if I saw it with my own eyes!

Even in our own church, there are huge needs with complex issues of the heart at play too.

I guess it just kind of threw me today. Maybe it’s because I’m feeling tired and hormonal. Maybe it’s also because I DO care but I know I don’t care nearly enough. I am astoundingly selfish in my comfortable little life.

Well … off to bed. May God have His way in my life!

SDG,
Tara B.