Chrism

When you reap your harvest in your field, and forget a sheaf in the field, you shall not go back to get it; it shall be for the stranger, the fatherless, and the widow, that the Lord your God may bless you in all the work of your hands (Duet. 24:19).

Those that have been blessed with riches, are commanded to be charitable to the poor and those in need. We are called not to be greedy in our gathering of riches, being afraid to leave anything behind. It will benefit us tremendously to be generous in our disposal of property for those who are less fortunate. If you forget some of your “sheaf in the field,” do not go back and gather it, but instead leave it for someone in need to find and benefit from. This specific example may not apply to our current lifestyle, but the message is clear. Do not gather for yourself and yourself only, but spread the wealth you have been blessed with. Never shy away from a helping hand, a donation, or anything that a person might need, for the Lord your God will bless you in everything you do.

“Say not, ‘What should the poor do with grapes and olives? It is enough for them to have bread and water;’ for, since they have the same senses that the rich have, why should not they have some little share of the delights of sense?“

Matthew Henry