Sermons

Let no one therefore, dearly beloved, flatter himself on any merits of a good life, if works of charity be wanting in him, and let him not trust in the purity of his body, if he be not cleansed by the purification of almsgiving. For “almsgiving wipes out sin,” kills death, and extinguishes the punishment of perpetual fire. But he who has not been fruitful therein, shall have no indulgence from the great Recompenser, as Solomon says, “He that closes his ears lest he should hear the weak, shall himself call upon the Lord, and there shall be none to hear him.”

And hence Tobias also, while instructing his son in the precepts of godliness, says, “Give alms of your substance, and turn not your face from any poor man: so shall it come to pass that the face of God shall not be turned from you.” This virtue makes all virtues profitable; for by its presence it gives life to that very faith, by which “the just lives,” and which is said to be “dead without works:” because as the reason for works consists in faith, so the strength of faith consists in works.

“While we have time therefore,” as the Apostle says, “let us do that which is good to all men, and especially to them that are of the household of faith.” “But let us not be weary in doing good; for in His own time we shall reap.” And so the present life is the time for sowing, and the day of retribution is the time of harvest, when every one shall reap the fruit of his seed according to the amount of his sowing. And no one shall be disappointed in the produce of that harvesting, because it is the heart's intentions rather than the sums expended that will be reckoned up.

And little sums from little means shall produce as much as great sums from great means. And therefore, dearly beloved, let us carry out this Apostolic institution. And as the first collection will be next Sunday, let all prepare themselves to give willingly, that every one according to his ability may join in this most sacred offering. Your very alms and those who shall be aided by your gifts shall intercede for you, that you may be always ready for every good work in Christ Jesus our Lord, Who lives and reigns for ages without end. Amen.