I don't believe that there is any way to avoid that problem or challenge,
Moose. The question for me is not whether I can avoid having to make choices
like that, but that I do make the right choice: to help others. The degree to
which I do so is not a matter for my conscience, a conscience that is driven by
what Jesus might have done.
Andrew's point about judging "deserving" is a valid one: we should not judge,
but we should love our neighbour as ourselves.
Now, if only I could live up to the this standard . . .
Chris
On 8 Sep 2013, at 00:05, Moose <olymoose@xxxxxxxxx> wrote:
> I imagine it's a problem for may Christians. Jesus is so uncompromising about
> giving more than is asked, without any
> concern for judging need. In leading practical lives where we are concerned
> about providing food, shelter, etc. for
> ourselves or our loved ones, and about making sure our charity goes to those
> most in need (by our standards), it doesn't
> seem so simple.
>
> It's hard to believe one will really be provided for, like the lilies of the
> field, the birds of the air, and so on, if
> one simply abandons any attachment or claim to the things of the material
> world.
>
> Much easier for the atheist, thoroughly pragmatic Christian, etc. to make a
> reasonable decision about how much they can
> help others, some reasonable guesses about where and when that help will do
> the most good, act, and get on. Personally,
> in the moment of seeing someone looking for a handout, I simply rely on
> intuition. I've given to those my mind thinks
> aren't deserving and not given to those who 'look' deserving.
--
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