Giving (Attitude of)

“When it is in the “strength” of our hand [Proverbs 9:27]…we should not hold back our charity. We should offer aid to the destitute willingly and cheerfully, just as St. Paul also advised (2 Cor. 9:7). Note that from this standpoint, it is not the amount that is important. We should give according to our ability (2 Cor 8:12). The crucial thing is attitude…From this standpoint, the needs of others are tests of our relationship to the passions that threaten to control our inner life… It is difficult to write about matters dealing with riches and the poor without seeming to make accusations of guilt and reproach. But consider today’s study as an invitation. Our insights should prompt us to consider our attitudes toward the material things that are under our management. And it invites us to a new perspective that frees us from our possessions and from the passions that clutch them so tightly.” (Fr. Basil)

“When Jesus warned, “Beware of practicing your piety before men,” He then added pointedly, “to be seen by them.” On first glance it seems as if the same thing were being repeated, but if you were carefully to pay attention, you will note a careful distinction. Alms may be given in the presence of others primarily to be seen by them, or they may be given in the presence of others but not to be seen, or they may be openly given in order to be seen but still not be seen, or they may be given quietly and still be seen. He is not focusing simply on the outward act done but the inward intent.” (St. John Chrysostom)

“Christ gives us everything: “All things come of Thee, O Lord, and of Thine own have we given Thee.” And, “Thine own of Thine own we offer unto Thee, on behalf of all and for all.” If all that I have is a gift for which I give thanks, a means of communion with God, then why should I begrudge sharing it with anyone? Indeed, the act of sharing is itself a primary and inherent part of giving thanks. We give to others because what we have has been given to us.” (Father Stephen Freeman)

“Many people falsely associate charity with the notion of a saintly life requiring certain types of sacrifice in order to care for others – perhaps even a complete alteration of our manner of life. “It is a great misconception to think . . . that one must undertake great, reverberating tasks. Not at all. It is necessary only to do everything according to the commandments of God . . . those things which present themselves to everyone in the circumstances of life… Such encounters will include our spouse, children, and neighbors, the checker at the market and the receptionist at a front desk. We are to extend our caring even in casual contacts.” (St. Theophan the Recluse, Dynamis 10/9/2021)

“ ‘I tell you the truth, this poor widow has put more not the offering box than all the others’ (Mark 12:43)…The widow was praised because she gave sincerely and at some considerable cost to herself…With God, giving is weighed evaluatively, not counted…” (NET Bible, Mark 12:43)

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