Sirach 18

When individuals encounter someone who shows no favoritism towards wealth, they promptly deem that person suitable for managing it. However, mere generosity is insufficient; while it is vitally important, without it, one may end up being more destructive than supportive, a wolf rather than a true shepherd. It is equally essential for one to embody another trait: patience, which is the foundation of all goodness for humanity, guiding the soul into a serene refuge. Those who are impoverished, including widows who are often burdened by hardship, advancing years, and societal expectations, may exhibit a troubling boldness; they may voice complaints inappropriately, make baseless accusations, and express ingratitude instead of appreciation, even chastising when they should be commended. It falls upon the leader to endure such challenges with grace and to remain unfazed by their premature demands or unjust criticisms. This group should be treated with compassion in their trials, not scorned; for to lack mercy in their plight, adding humiliation to the anguish of poverty, is a grave cruelty. Hence, a wise individual, recognizing the inherent selfishness and pride found in human nature and understanding that poverty can reduce even the most resilient spirit, serves as a guide. He advises that one should remain calm when approached by the poor, not allowing irritation over their persistent appeals to transform one into an adversary rather than a helper. He encourages kindness, saying, “Incline your ear to the poor man” without distress, and respond to him tenderly and gently (Sir. 4:8). Focusing on those who can handle the weaknesses of the needy, he instructs that even before generosity, one should uplift them with a compassionate glance and soft words. Anyone who withholds assistance from widows while showering them with reproach and insults not only fails to ease their afflictions but also worsens their suffering through harsh words. While they may be compelled to disregard their dignity due to dire need, they mourn this necessity. Consequently, when hunger drives them to plead for help, abandoning their sense of shame, they often face another layer of distress due to their vulnerability, which obscures their spirit in despondency. Those who offer care should demonstrate such nobility that they not only refrain from adding to their despair with criticism but actively seek to alleviate their situation through solace. The person who has suffered offense, even when experiencing abundance, finds no joy in wealth if it is marred by insult; likewise, when one receives kind words and compassion alongside gifts, their spirit is lifted, making the act of giving itself a profound blessing. I convey this, not by my own wisdom, but from the teachings of the one who provided such encouragement.

Often, a thoughtful word can provide greater comfort to the needy than financial support. Therefore, let us resolve never to express anger towards those who seek our assistance; if we are in a position to help, let us do so with joy, as if we were receiving much more than we give. But even if we cannot aid them materially, let us not treat them harshly; instead, let us offer them kind words and engage them gently. Why should we respond with severity? Do they coerce us? Are they demanding anything of us? They merely ask, beseech, and implore; someone who acts in this manner does not deserve cruelty. And what do I mean by asking and begging? They offer us countless favors for the sake of a single coin. Yet, we hesitate to grant even that. Can we truly expect forgiveness from God under such conditions? What justification will we have when, each day, we indulge in lavish meals, often beyond our needs, but refuse to share even a morsel with the poor? In doing so, we miss out on countless blessings we could have received. How grave is our negligence! Consider how much good we forfeit through it, how many opportunities slip from our grasp! We rob ourselves of the means of salvation provided by God, neglecting to reflect on the ubiquity of our almsgiving and the immense rewards it brings, instead hoarding our possessions as they gather dust and rust, or worse, saving them for future thieves. We allow diverse garments to deteriorate while being unwilling to part with the excess that serves no purpose, thus failing to secure unspeakable blessings. May we receive these gifts through the grace and kindness of our Lord Jesus Christ; to Him, along with the Father and the Holy Spirit, be glory, power, and honor, now and forever, and to the ages of ages. Amen.