This weekly post typically focuses on various ways to give and serve through community service, organized local or national charities, or simply through individual giving of time, talent and resources.
If you are of one of the Christian traditions, almsgiving is a very important part of the Lenten observance. The season of Lent began with Ash Wednesday this past week, and continues for 40 days, ending with the Easter celebration.
However, almsgiving and charity is not just part of Christianity. It’s universally accepted by organized religions as an important part of reflecting the desires of and gratitude for whoever that religion’s “supreme being” is. Below are numerous links to explore yourself.
The Lutheran Church, Missouri Synod provides this definition and numerous Biblical references to start with.
An explanation of alms and the obligation of alsmgiving can be found in The Catholic Encyclopedia.
The third pillar of Islam is zakat, or almsgiving.
In Buddhism, the concept is slightly different. Alms are not charity, but a connection to the spiritual.
The Jewish Encylcopedia describes charity in the spirit of justice.
Many other religions in some way encourage the spirit of giving and kindness and generosity. Consider this week how you can be fully present to opportunities for this type of charity.
