When is following the mandate of Christ too much?

As we walk through life the opportunity of generosity may present itself when our common sense may say no. Common sense is not an attribute that directs our ability to turn away from a needy person. However, it does stand as a guide to discern the intent of one in need. “Give to everyone who asks of you. If you lend money to those whom you expect repayment, what credit is that to you? ..and lend expecting nothing back; for your reward will be great and you will be children of the Most High.” (LK 6: 30, 34, 35 b).

This becomes an intrusion to some people who unfortunately see money as the necessity for life and hold onto it dearly. I remember my parents lived through the depression and my father sold magazine subscriptions to make ends meet. And growing up during WWII with all of the saving aluminum wrappers from cigarette packs, string from meat being secured in packages from the grocery store, and every little item that might contribute to the war effort, as a youngster the effect left images of selfishness towards those who had nothing.

However, 2023, even with wars erupting around the globe, the needs for too many people are apparent and those of us who have a little may become easy targets for a loan. The inflation with rising gas prices, food costs going through the roof, and now the job market is not as strong as the government makes it sound like. These are circumstances that can infiltrate some methods that make the poor vulnerable and find them knocking at our door. Do we make judgments as to who is worthy to help or shun all of them?

Being able to discern who is worthy can become arduous. However, if we try to make a distinction as to who we will help, we may end up helping no one. If the one person who is in dire need of a small loan and they have nowhere to go for help, the ultimate result could be a disaster for them. Obviously to avoid the knock at your door at night can be ignored and we can then rest easy not knowing who was there. Let your attitude be one of non-involvement and you may never lose any sleep. But, if you are a Christian following the mandate of Jesus’ teaching us to be willing to assist another, sleep may become difficult if charity (love) has meaning.

I am certain this article may present many questions and few answers to what you as a reader should do. Remember that making choices in any area of life can be a positive or negative determination and create a dichotomy to our decision.

Living in a time when the future is now in question to our nation that was always secure, notwithstanding Pearl Harbor in 1941 and 9/11 in New York, Washington DC, and Shanksville, PA. Whether we give to a needy person or succumb to the tune of another war, the fear of being asked to stand for justice and praise to God remains the same. Our tenacious attitude must be on a Christian level of belief and the choice we make will become the moral standard of humanity.

Ralph B. Hathaway