“What in the world should we do?” the people asked John the Baptist. He had challenged them in no uncertain terms to put their money where their mouths were, to walk their talk:  “Prove by the way you live, that you have repented of your sins and turned to God.” (Luke 3:8) John’s answer to their question (they wanted specifics) was this:  “If you have two shirts, give one to the poor. If you have food, share it with those who are hungry.”

This was first on his list of ways in which followers of God would habitually live their lives:  distributing provision to the poor.

Today’s a rainy day. We’re going through closets and hauling stuff to a nearby Salvation Army drop-off. We hope and pray that our little contribution (which we will not feel in the least, gluttonous as we are for garments, yet, probably no more so than you, dear blog-reader) will somehow bless another soul. Maybe she is cold and needs a sweater. Maybe he wants a job, and needs a suit for an interview.

Father, bless these garments. Please cover those who receive them physically, emotionally, and spiritually so they can thrive once again. Amen.

As it happens I also read this today in my Bible reading: “If you help the poor, you are lending to the Lord — and He will repay you!” (Proverbs 19:17) 

Hmmmm…. What a thought…

“Pure and genuine religion in the sight of God the Father means caring for orphans and widows in their distress and refusing to let the world corrupt you.” James 1:27