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FIRST this has not one thing at all to do with AspenFHII said:Thinking more on this, I suppose I should cut Aspen a break (maybe). The problem I have is with people that say they love the Lord by loving others, especially when it comes to giving, but really in any circumstance. When asked if God is first they tend to be flippant and say, "Oh, well yea.... That's a given."
I'd like for you (speaking in general) to consider "who is a neighbor"? Is it anyone who's around (as in strangers) or is it brethren? I just reread 1 Peter last night and he put emphasis on loving the brethren, not neighbors. Contrasted is Jesus talking about the Good Samaritan (I believe he was talking about himself being the Good Samaritan, but lets move on....) as being a neighbor. Yet another contrast is Jesus wasn't really that kind to everyone (the pharasees, for example). People may say he rebuked them out of love.... True.... Love for whom? Them or the Father?
Regardless, I do believe in helping strangers for the reasons talked about in Heb 13:2. There's another reason, though, and that's simply that I was once a stranger as well.
So, yes help whom you will, but when you do and turn to Mat 23:36-40, just keep in mind which one is the first and great commandment. Be humble, not necessarily to others, but to God.
One more thing.... Before talking about your good works and all the charity work you are doing, you may want to read Mat 6:1-4 to ensure that you receive a heavenly reward.