Almsgiving and charitable acts should be practiced

Sirach 35:1-12, Mark 10:28-31. As we return to the Ordinary season of the Liturgical year, we are reminded that almsgiving and charitable acts are to be practiced as a response to what God has already done for us. Today’s first reading and the Psalmist present the importance of offering to God a sacrifice of loving service rather than ritualistic offerings. While today’s Gospel recounts how the disciples question Jesus about their “reward” for giving up some of their former ways of living.

Thus, Jesus promises to bless the disciples and multiple what they have given up by giving them more in this life. Though that should not be the reason we do good, but it should be an added advantage for what we receive. The main purpose of our actions at all times should be to give glory to God and to be true witnesses to the loving care of God. That is why we should seek to draw closer to Jesus and act lovingly towards others. Jesus also promises some other fringe benefits of being His disciples: persecution and eternal life, through which we share in His passion.

May the Lord guide us and help us to live our lives as Christians, with zeal and commitment, in every moments of our lives! Amen!! Have a terrific day!!!