Do Any of Us Really 'Deserve' Anything?

    I fed a homeless guy today.

    I've withheld doing this for a while because nearly every time I have in the past, I immediately learn I was scammed. So, I'll work my hands to the bone for people on the streets, but I hesitate to give them money.

    Last night I read a post by a missionary friend about buying food for some people, and finding out she got scammed by their story. But she still gave them the food because she realized she didn't make conditions. It was a gift she offered regardless if they were genuine or not. After all, that's what Christ does for us every day. -Even though we don't deserve it.

    Also, I realized that, as a missionary myself, I am asking people to give me money and trust I am honorable with it. I am not homeless. I am not starving. Why should I put conditions on others when I consider generosity?

    That realization hit me hard. So I asked the Lord for an opportunity to give to someone. By the highway I saw a man with his dog sitting by the road. I didn't have much on me. So, I got a cheeseburger at McDonald's, grabbed the unopened water bottle I had with me, put $5 in the bag, parked the car, and walked over to him. (Note for the worried, it was at a major crossing section. Plenty of people there I'm sure we're watching me.)

    The guy was grateful for the food and water. I asked his name (Eddie) and shook his hand. I promised to be praying for him in his journey. Next time I'm going to also pray with the person immediately.

    Guys, I don't know about you, but I'm weary of trying to determine if someone is 'deserving' or not. God has blessed me richly, not for myself alone, but so that I can be a blessing to others. And I don't deserve His blessings. So, I'm gonna stop expecting others to deserve it. If they scammed me, so what? What do I lose? Nothing. God got a chance to see His love in me come forth, and THAT'S what's important. I'll let him take care of the rest.

    Remember, everything we to unto others, we do to God.