The foundational call of Christians to charity and service is a frequent theme of the Gospels. During Lent, we are called in a specific way to focus on 'almsgiving,' which is a witness to caring for those around us. But almsgiving is also an act of prayer, because in giving to others, we are surrendering ourselves to the Lord. Ultimately all that we are and have (not just money!) is a gift from God, and we are called to give all of it back to the Lord in the way that we live and interact with our brothers and sisters on earth.
Often in our culture, we are taught to hold on to what we have with white knuckled hands. We often believe that we have to produce every good thing in our lives. We often distrust that God is a good father, who will provide for what we need. Alsmgiving is a way to practice the virtues of temperance, patience, charity, trust, surrender. Where in your life are you holding on too tight and how might the Lord be asking you to a deerp witness of charity?
Ideas for Almsgiving: