We spoke yesterday of financial or material almsgiving, but there is another dimension that doesn't cost a penny: "spiritual almsgiving". This we have been doing all along, but perhaps never looked upon it as "almsgiving." We pray for others, giving of our time, and surplanting a desire to do something at a particular time, such as watching the news, and using those moments to offer a decade of the rosary, a whole rosary, or even just a Hail Mary, for the needs of someone else. We might visit someone who is ill, lonely, elderly, depressed, anxious, or mourning. Even attending the wake of a neighbor, colleague's relative, or family friend, "means a lot" to people; it just takes some of our time, but like giving food to the hungry, or a few dollars to the needy, it is an expression of love and brings hope and a sense that "someone cares."
Today is a First Friday, traditionally a day to honor the Sacred Heart of Jesus, whose heart burns with inexhaustible love for us. What a good day for "spiritual almsgiving", for bringing God's love in a tangible way to someone who feels distant from God, or unloved and unlovable.
Experiencing care and concern can make a difference in such a person. "The poor are all those who stand in need of our love, our time, our interest, our concern." (Magnificat, March 2010, p. 66)
Can we turn our backs on our brothers and sisters?
Bro. Rene
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