Sunday, February 26, 2012

"Accidentally" helping others

Have you ever been reminded of something nice that you've done for someone else?  Something where you really went out of your way to help them, but on being reminded of your deed you are surprised and amazed (in a nice way) that you did this?  


 


This is a pattern of behaviour that is entirely spiritual.  Regularly doing things for people when you are able, even if it means doing so at great personal cost to yourself.  It could be time, money, mental energy, or something else that you have contributed.  The main thing is that you have done this and then forgotten about it when other people might have stood taller and been proud of their sacrifice.


 


Jesus says that you shouldn't even let your left hand know what your right hand is doing (when giving to the needy), which is to say that you don't even talk to yourself about what a great person you are.  Instead you forget what you've done because giving becomes second nature, an unconscious act, and you give so much of yourself that you can't keep track of it all.  That is where the Spirit is.


 


“Thus, when you give to the needy, sound no trumpet before you, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, that they may be praised by others. Truly, I say to you, they have received their reward. But when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, so that your giving may be in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will reward you. - Matthew 6:2-4


 



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