The atheist said that he does charitable works as well, but he doesn't link his works to his belief that there is no God. He also said that Christian charities too often force those who partake of their charity to listen to Christian messages.
I told him this.
My charitable works are indelibly tied to my faith because I love God so much and I want to serve Him. I told him that I serve others, because I love God and God loves people. I told him about our church, that has a homeless ministry called Ministry of Hope and how the humble people of our church, none of whom are very well off financially, pitch in to provide meals, job assistance, and help to homeless people as much as they can. And, that a service is offered to them, but they are not required to attend it in order to get help.
I told him that one thing that we provide that many others don't is respect and love. The homeless that take part are not made to feel lower than we who help out in any way. They are treated as one of us, and we love them. Many say it is the safest place they visit, a place where they can relax and have a feeling of worth. The looks on their faces, of joy and deep appreciation are enough to bring tears to my eyes.
So, I believe that Christians cannot separate their good works and their faith because they are intertwined. And, they should not be derided for this, or ashamed of it. Everything I do, at least I hope, is done to honor God, from my eating to my everyday actions of cleaning house and caring for my daughter. There is nothing I do that I don't want God involved in.
