Our scripture this morning is Proverbs 19:17 (NIV).
Whoever is kind to the poor lends to the Lord, and he will reward them for what they have done.
God commanded us to care for the poor, saying “Give generously to them and do so without a grudging heart” (Deuteronomy 15:10). This proverb compares it to “lending to the Lord”, that those who benefit from our giving have no means to repay, nor should we expect it. It is our duty as His people to care for all of creation, but especially those who suffer.
Paul writes: “Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver” (2 Corinthians 9:6-7). Our giving is between us and the Lord; it is not to make us look good in the eyes of others.
In Mark 12:41-44 Jesus shares His teaching about the Widow’s Mite, who gave out of her own poverty. Mother Theresa of Calcutta cared for the poorest among us and even though she had no wealth of her own, she shared her love and encouraged others to join her efforts. Our capability to give is not based on how much we have, but rather a response to the love God has shown us. We go in His name to minister to the needs of all.
Loving Lord, in order to care for each other we must see and hear each other. Help us listen and learn, and to care for the physical and spiritual needs of all our brothers and sisters. Amen.
