Ever notice the affect money and material goods plays on how people are treated? A lot of people claim to be Christian but don’t act very “Christ-like” when it comes to parting with their money. It’s crazy but some will give thousands of dollars to their church. Not because God tells them to tithe, but so when the financial statement comes out listing the top givers, they can brag and boast about what material wealth God has blessed them with… but won’t give a homeless man a dollar.
Some people give just so others will praise them for giving. The Bible states in Romans 15: 1-2, "We who are strong ought to bear with the failings of the weak and not to please ourselves. Each of us should please his neighbor for his good and build him up.” Contrary to popular belief, life is not about separating ourselves through monetary accomplishments, for money is the root of all evil. Life is about helping others and as it states in Matthew 7:12, "So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets.”
A couple of months ago, in downtown Indianapolis, I was walking to CVS and saw a homeless guy sitting on the street. People were walking by turning their noses up at him, commenting on how bad he smelled, and shunning him like an OutKast of society. As I approached him I could hear him humming Precious Lord. He was not begging for money or creating any disturbance, just humming. As I got closer to him he opened his eyes and had the craziest deep blue eyes. He looked at me and said “Aren’t we blessed?” and smiled. I said, “Yes brotha we are." I gave him a $10 I had in my pocket. He said, “Thanks man but I didn’t ask for help.” I responded “Brotha when I help you…I help me”. As a wise woman (Nana) once told me…”be mindful how you treat people, for you never know when you’re entertaining the presence of God.”
