Bernard of Clairvaux: Greater benefit

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Whoever is kind to the poor lends to the LORD, and He will reward them for what they have done. Proverbs 19:17

“Those who give alms often receive greater benefit than those who receive them.”

Bernard of Clairvaux (1090-1153) in Day’s Collacon, compiled and arranged by Edward Parsons Day (New York: IPPO, 1884) 26.

When we give alms to the poor, when we help a weak person in need, when we serve someone who cannot repay us, the LORD sees and will rewards us.

Seeing “LORD” in the text reminds me of the personal nature of God. He sees what each and every person does. Nothing is hidden from His sight.

Also notice the future tense “will” word in there, lest we aid people to get something in return. God will sort out the rewards in His timing. We are here to help people with kindness.

Personally, I can’t describe the blessing I am receiving in serving nearly 100 ministry board members and administrators from some 43 countries this week. I am a word person, and I am at a loss.

Let me challenge you. Pray about someone to serve, someone to financially assist, someone to help with a challenge this Lent. Give alms, either in the form of money or in giving yourself.

The only way to discover what Bernard is talking about is to give alms and find out.