My Mom always said…”once the gift is given, you have done what Jesus asks us to do as his followers”. I always give something if I can.

So, real question here: I’ve been in evangelical churches almost exclusively since being baptized at age 26. And at this point, what’s throttling my generosity (to the church) is watching stupid spending decisions. Like planning for a 7th (PT paid) staffer in a church of 75 people. Or opening a restaurant “as outreach” when no one in the church knows how to run one. Am I wrong?

Think of what God has given us and how we’ve squandered it.

This has nothing to do with your religion this has everything to do with common sense. I work with plenty of social workers, and people who work in homeless shelters and they would give you the same advice. The best thing you can do is give food and actually sit with people and talk to them. Keeping gift cards to easily accessible fast food places in your car is also a great idea.

Being homeless also fucking sucks. It’s not like the few dollars you give them is going to put a roof over their head! But maybe getting a little high will give them some comfort that helps them escape the horrific reality of their situation. Poverty is not a moral failing it’s a systemic issue.