Nougat 22

Have you ever had to live with the sting of disappointing someone whose opinions mattered to you? Consider today’s Holy Nougat

“When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?’ “Then he will say to those on his left, ‘Depart from me, you who are cursed, into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels.” ‭‭Matthew‬ ‭25:39, 41‬ ‭NIV‬‬

In our present reality, we are likelier to hear this nougat quite literally. With the plethora of beggars now on the streets; neighbors, friends and family facing life’s challenges; or displaced persons – local and foreign – we are up to our necks in those needing help.

What we haven’t heard so regularly is the possible chiding that accompanies the accountability session. For all intents and purposes; God seems to expect us to feed the poor and distressed from our own ‘stores’. And failure to do so has dire consequences. The challenge many of us face, myself included, is discerning what is need versus greed. For there are those who seem intent on preying upon our generosity and making their living in that manner. The conundrum for many then is, do we give? How do we discern what to give and if we do, what do we give?

As one who is still wrestling with those, I don’t have a clear solution but to say; prayerfully ponder and go with God’s direction. And, if challenged to do more than just give a coin or note; then try to discern whether it is part of your call. For that could very well be the case.

Just think, some of the counselors, social workers, caregivers and healing-frontline professionals found their calling in that way. And there are countless stories of individuals who adopted/fostered families in need because they stopped long enough to respond to God’s call. It might not be chronicled in such a manner; but one realizes that was the case.

A quick caution regarding our giving – if we give food, clothing and/or tangibles; let’s give what we’d appreciate getting. I believe that opting for the items at the bottom of our discard pile is worse than not giving. Mark you, that’s my theory, not a direct word from God. For, if we give less than what we would wish to receive, it suggests that we have robbed the person in need of their dignity!

With regard to monetary giving; someone once shared a valuable insight. That person set aside a specific amount reserved for assisting the poor. I don’t recall whether it was part of their tithe or a different offering, but it was a decision made and adhered to even today. Would that we did likewise!

So … if we were asked to give an account of our stewardship; would our Boss be proud of us; or will we live with the sting of disappointment?

Hear the cry

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May all we seek be found in Christ