Weekly Challenge
Feed the Hungry, Give Drink to the Thirsty, Clothe the Naked

Week Beginning March 12

Feed the Hungry, Give Drink to the Thirsty, Clothe the Naked

This week, we reflect upon the three corporal works of mercy that involve providing tangible necessities to the needy: feeding the hungry, giving drink to the thirsty, and clothing the naked. You may notice some accounts of the corporal works refer to the latter as giving alms to the poor. These acts are a means to express God’s love for the less fortunate. They reflect the belief that Christ is present in those who are struggling. Jesus reminds us: “The poor you will always have with you; but you will not always have me” (Matthew 26:11). Through these words, he affirms the inherent value of every human life created in the image of God.

Food and drink are fundamental requirements vital for all life. Clothing comforts us and protects us from the harsh elements. Although we live in a world of abundance, we also live in a world of poverty. In an instant, tragedy could strike and our circumstances could change. We don’t have to look far to see that many of our brothers and sisters suffer from starvation or food insecurity; many lack access to clean drinking water and other essentials. When we search for the “naked” in our community, we include those who are stripped of meaningful relationships and are outcast.

There are many ways we can help those in need. It can be as simple as basic hospitality–offering someone a drink on a hot day, bringing a meal to a neighbor who is having a hard time, or dressing your children and elderly grandparents. Other common ways to perform these corporal works of mercy include:

  • cleaning out our closets and pantries and donating the goods that we are not using

  • financially supporting or volunteering at food pantries, soup kitchens, thrift stores, and other service institutions

  • organizing or participating in fundraisers and collection drives for food and clothing

  • becoming better stewards of our resources by conserving and minimizing waste

  • advocating for policies that address poverty, agricultural efforts, and clean water initiatives.

Performing these acts involves giving not only what is in our hands, but also what is in our hearts. In addition to furnishing basic goods, we spread charity, kindness, and compassion to those who are often overlooked and neglected. When we give to the poor, we offer hope, dignity, and a sense of belonging. Saint Teresa of Calcutta says, “It’s not how much we give but how much love we put into giving.”

The Catechism of the Catholic Church places high value on almsgiving: “Among all these, giving alms to the poor is one of the chief witnesses to fraternal charity: it is also a work of justice pleasing to God” (CCC 2447). When we recognize that everything we enjoy is a gift from God on loan from Him for our benefit, we understand that it is our responsibility to share that bounty with others the way God shares it with us. We are not isolated individuals, but rather interconnected members of a larger community. The well-being of one person is intimately tied to the well-being of all. In this way, the Church relates our charitable works to works of justice and witnesses to fraternity.

Giving to others enables us to practice humility and self-emptying. By focusing on the needs of others, almsgiving helps us detach from material possessions. It frees us to contribute to the mission of the Church and to properly order our lives toward God. We deepen our own spiritual journey when we become part of God’s plan to bring hope and healing to our broken world. Saint Francis of Assisi observes that “it is in giving that we receive.”

In the spirit of Lent, challenge yourself this week to be charitable beyond your comfort zone. Consider contributing in a different way, or develop a new habit of generosity. For example, every time you buy yourself an item of clothing, donate an item of clothing. Or give up a small indulgence every week, and donate the money you would have spent on that treat. Remember that when we share our blessings, we are asked to give from our substance, not our surplus (Mark 12:41-44). Take an honest look at what you are doing. Are you giving your fair share?

Blessed Sacrament

The city that never sleeps deserves a chapel that never closes!

God’s mercy will soon be available at all hours in Manhattan. To learn more about the Divine Mercy Adoration Chapel and find out how you can get involved, please click the link below.

Copyright © 2024 alleluia.nyc