Devotion of the day: giving alms

It is the most lucrative art: This is how Chrysostom defines almsgiving. Give to the indigent, and you will be given a full, abundant measure, says Jesus. Whoever gives to the poor will not fall into misery, says the Holy Spirit. Close alms in the womb of the poor; it will draw you out of all affliction and defend you better than a valiant sword; so did the Ecclesiastic. Blessed is he who gives alms, says David, the Lord will deliver him in bad days, in life and in death. What do you say? Isn't that the most lucrative art?

It is God's command. It is not just advice: Jesus said that he will judge and condemn the cruel ones who, in the person of the poor, did not clothe him naked, did not feed him hungry, did not quench his thirst: do you mean? He condemned the rich Dives to Hell because he forgot Lazarus as a beggar at the gate. O hard-hearted, who close your hand and deny the alms of your substance, de! your superfluous, remember that it is written: "Whoever does not show mercy will not find it with the Lord"!

Spiritual alms. Whoever sows little will reap little; but whoever sows abundantly will reap to usury, says St. Paul. Whoever gives charity to the poor, lends interest to God himself who will give him the reward. Almsgiving obtains Eternal Life, says Tobias. After such promises, who does not fall in love with almsgiving? And you, poor man, make it at least spiritual, with advice, with prayers, give any help; offer your will to God, and you will have the merit.

PRACTICE. - Give alms today, or propose to give it abundant at the first opportunity.