Excuses

The number of panhandlers around the USA seems to be in the rise, not to mention the number of requests for help that come through the mail or on the internet. We are suspicious because of the SCAM artists who are just as prevalent, it seems.  So we look for excuses: "Why doesn't he or she look for a job instead of standing there all day?"  "I'm busy now, maybe tomorrow."  "These mailings go to millions of people, why do they need my little contribution?"  This attitude is universal, and is addressed in the Book of Proverbs:  "Say not to your neighbor, 'Go and come again,/ tomorrow I will give,' when you can give at once." (Prv 3: 28). Proverbs 3: 27 gives us a "safety valve":  "when it is in your power to do it."  Whew.  There is a limit, so let prudence guide and let us do the best we can.  Fr. Hespburg said he always gave something, knowing that at times he would be "the loser", so that the person with the legitimate need would not be denied the help he or she needed.  Something to think about.
Bro. Rene