Not Knowing What to Do

There is a homeless man who is often found on corner on our way to church. He stands there mostly unobtrusively, but in a matter such that he also lets you know that he's accepting donations. Sometimes he has a sign, but often not. And he definitely looks the part.

Of course, the kids have noticed him and have asked us many questions. That is a good thing and has brought up a few good conversations. But usually we don't give him anything. Why? Because we are uncompassionate hard-hearted snobs who, although being on our way to church, don't feel a need to. Ok, hopefully not quite that bad (but probably closer to the truth than I want to admit). Its really a combination of several things:

• Skepticism regarding his actual need for a handout (fed by reports of people making a good living thru standing at street corners)
• Unwillingness to provide cash, due to its potential use to buy things other than "necessities"
• Presumption that he really doesn't want to accept non-packaged food or beverage, lest it be tainted

But I think it really comes down to discomfort in knowing that anything we give him will be inadequate, or at least less than we have been called to do for "the least of these".

I admit that I'm a wimp. At least I could find out his name and invite him to come with us to church. Maybe next week.