Be kind even to people who don’t deserve it; Church Fathers: Day 100

Is that beggar on the street just a lazy bum? Maybe so, but St. John Cassian re­minds us that our moral judgment is not supposed to limit our Christian charity.

Nevertheless, like a far-sighted and careful physician, the Apostle Paul is not only anxious to heal the wounds of the sick, but gives suitable directions as well to the healthy, so that their health may be preserved continually. He says, “do not be weary in well-doing, you who follow me (meaning my ways). Copy the example given to you by imitating me in work, and do not follow their sloth and laziness.”

“Do not be weary in well-doing” (2 Thessalonians 3:13): that is, show kind­ness towards them even if by chance they have failed to observe what we said.

He was severe with those who were weak, for fear that, because they were worn by laziness, they might yield to restlessness and inquisitiveness. But at the same time he admonishes those who are in good health not to restrain that kind­ness which the Lord’s command bids us show to the good and evil (see Matthew 5:43-45), even if some bad people will not turn to sound doctrine. He also admon­ishes us not to desist from doing good and encouraging them both by words of consolation and by rebuke, as well as by ordinary kindness and civility. –St. John Cassian, Institutes, 10.15

IN GOD’S PRESENCE, CONSIDER . . .

Is it hard for me to show charity to people I think are lazy or immoral?

CLOSING PRAYER

Father, rescue the distressed, feed the hungry, comfort the weak, and guide them all into the way of salvation.

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