This week, we're focusing on the third and final of those three Lenten pillars: almsgiving (wha....?).
It's important to note that charity comes in three forms: giving of our time, giving of our talent, and giving of our treasure. We need to always discern during our current season of life from which of those areas God is calling us to give. Sometimes we give from one area comfortably and we would grow in holiness to stretch in giving in a different way. Other times, we are limited by our means, time, and ability. God asks of us, but He doesn't ask the impossible of us.
Most often, almsgiving is associated with giving of our earthly treasure (money). If you’re anything like me, almsgiving is not only the last on the list of the Lenten pillars, but is also last on your priority list. I pray every day, I try to fast in different ways each Lent, but the truth is, I’m not great at almsgiving.
Yet Jesus makes it clear that almsgiving is a core part of what makes us His followers. When He speaks to his disciples about feeding the hungry, welcoming the stranger, clothing the naked and visiting the lonely, he leaves them with the words "just as you did it to one of the least of these… you did it to me" (Matthew 25:40).
Too often, I think the typically Catholic approach to giving is that when we see the collection plate slowly making its way to us at Sunday mass, we reach into our pockets and whatever loose change we pull out, we give. I know that I could do better about being intentionally generous, giving from my firstfruits rather than scrapping the bottom of the piggybank for leftovers.
If we want to approach almsgiving with purpose this year, let's be thoughtful about what we give. It might be donating to a charity you know is doing great work, volunteering at a local outreach center, or visiting those who struggle to enter into community. Whatever it is, make a commitment and stick to it.
One final thing about prayer, fasting and almsgiving – they aren’t exclusive to Lent! The purpose of the commitments we make over these 40 days isn’t to drop them the moment Lent is over. They’re meant to be a solid foundation for living out our faith every day!
Lent is an incredible opportunity to start (or re-start) practices that take us deeper in relationship with God and with the people around us. Don’t miss that opportunity. Live your Lent with purpose. Yes, yes - Lent is "almost over," but it's never too late to do something well!