Staff Reports
The verse from Luke 6:30, “Give to everyone who begs from you,” is a challenging teaching from Jesus that calls for radical generosity and love, but it does not require giving irresponsibly or to the point of self-harm. The scripture emphasizes giving with a heart of self-sacrifice and love, without expecting repayment—even when others might take unfair advantage. However, biblical commentators and theologians like St. Augustine remind us that this call to generosity must be understood with wisdom and balance. Giving does not mean sacrificing responsibility to family or enabling harmful behaviors.
The principle of “ordo amoris,” which suggests prioritizing those closest to us—such as family—fits well with a conservative worldview that values order and responsibility. It is not only reasonable but moral to first provide for one’s children, spouse, and community before extending charity indiscriminately. The teaching is not about blind generosity but cultivating a love that discerns the right kind of help, beyond mere handouts, which may enable destructive habits.
Real charity, then, goes beyond money. It involves investing time, care, and wisdom to genuinely uplift others. The act of giving should encourage real growth and well-being, rather than momentary relief that might lead to greater harm, such as enabling addiction. Conservatives can embrace this holistic approach to charity, maintaining strong family and community ties while also embodying Christ’s call to compassion.
Furthermore, true Christian charity includes evangelism—engaging respectfully and lovingly with those who hold different beliefs, offering the hope of faith rather than mere material aid. Conservatives are called not to withdraw from those outside their faith but to be instruments of God’s love, promoting understanding and conviction without compromising values.
In conclusion, Luke 6:30 is not a call to reckless giving but an invitation to embody a charity that unites faith with reason. For conservatives, it means balancing generosity with responsibility, serving family and community carefully, while extending love and support in ways that truly help others grow. Charity is a beautiful paradox of compassion and prudence, requiring both heart and wisdom to navigate in today’s complex world.
