Everyone is interested in finding short-cuts to just about anything, especially if it is beneficial, right? :) Ok, so what do you think can counterbalance or 'kind of' square off your sins in God's sight?
What is it?
Alms-giving is an act of charity to those in need. It comes from a greek word meaning having mercy, pity on the poor. It could be giving money, food, clothing, shoes, bags or even volunteering your time, talent or skills.
Why do it?
Jesus warns in Matthew 6 to not do any righteous deed (examples : alms giving, prayer or fasting) in order to be noticed by people. To not do it, to win the praise of others like the hypocrites do in the houses of God (churches, synagogues, temples) and on the streets by blowing a trumpet.
What should be your intention?
How to do it right?
If anyone feels far from God because of past sins ... by drawing close to others through alms-giving, one draws closer to God. You begin to realize that your existence is meaningful as God's peace and joy flows into your heart. St Francis of Assisi has said that all men have to leave behind friends, relatives, material wealth when they begin their final journey. What they can carry is the reward of their charity and the alms they gave. And for these the Lord will reward what they deserve.
I did learn a lot more as I wrote this. All of this started with one verse i had scribbled in my notebook, a few days ago - Sirach 3:29.
What is it?
Alms-giving is an act of charity to those in need. It comes from a greek word meaning having mercy, pity on the poor. It could be giving money, food, clothing, shoes, bags or even volunteering your time, talent or skills.
Why do it?
- It is pleasing to God.
- Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have, for such sacrifices are pleasing to God. Hebrews 13:16
- It is a way to glorify God.
- He that oppresses the poor blasphemes his Maker, but he who is kind to the needy glorifies him. Proverbs 14:31
- Sins are forgiven.
- Alms atone for sins, like water extinguishes a flaming fire. He who does a kindness to the poor, finds support when he falls. Sirach 3:29
- You find help when you are in trouble.
- Blessed are the merciful, for they will receive mercy. Matthew 5:7
- God repays you as you fully deserve.
- Whoever is generous to the poor, lends to the Lord and God will repay him for his deed. Proverbs 19:17
Jesus warns in Matthew 6 to not do any righteous deed (examples : alms giving, prayer or fasting) in order to be noticed by people. To not do it, to win the praise of others like the hypocrites do in the houses of God (churches, synagogues, temples) and on the streets by blowing a trumpet.
What should be your intention?
- As an expression of love toward others who are less fortunate and struggling.
- As an act of sharing with another who lacks. Is not everything you own a gift from God?
- A heartfelt desire to worship and honor God.
How to do it right?
- Be generous joyfully.
- Give as you have decided in your heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. 2 Corinthians 9:7
- With a humble spirit.
- Like the poor widow from Mark 12:44 who gave everything from the very little she had.
- Do it in secret.
- Let not your left hand know what your right hand is doing. Matthew 6.
If anyone feels far from God because of past sins ... by drawing close to others through alms-giving, one draws closer to God. You begin to realize that your existence is meaningful as God's peace and joy flows into your heart. St Francis of Assisi has said that all men have to leave behind friends, relatives, material wealth when they begin their final journey. What they can carry is the reward of their charity and the alms they gave. And for these the Lord will reward what they deserve.
I did learn a lot more as I wrote this. All of this started with one verse i had scribbled in my notebook, a few days ago - Sirach 3:29.
