 Sabine Won
My first job after college was working as a graphic designer in San Francisco. I was so excited to ride Bart into the financial district every day and work in a dynamic and diverse city! However, working in the city includes dealing with gritty urban life and I used to struggle with how to treat those living on the streets.
I was taught to help those in need and got involved with volunteer organizations early on, but I felt bad every time I walked by a homeless person. I often gave change to those on the streets and was constantly warned not to give money because it usually ended up feeding a drug habit. Every time I passed a person asking for a handout, I remembered God's words from Matthew 25:40: Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me. How could I best help "the least of these" without doing more harm? I often prayed for God to teach me what I could do in the moment.
One day, as I was looking for change to put in someone's cup, I came across an energy bar in my purse. Suddenly, it was like I heard God speaking to my heart urging me to give away my food. For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink. Everyone needs to eat! Prayers answered!
The verses in Matthew 25 have become more meaningful as I grow in my faith. At Trinity, there are many ways to honor God's call to serve through ministry outreach and charity donations. But I still stash food in my purse, backpack and car so I have a way to help those less fortunate everywhere I go.
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