Ask

"If you then, who are wicked, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your heavenly Father give good things to those who ask." Mt 7:11

Asking for what we need can be difficult, embarrassing and uncomfortable. North Americans especially have been taught to be self reliant, independent and (dare we say it!) self centered. The simple bromide: Charity begins at home, while understandable, can also be code language and an excuse for not listening to the needs of the poor or people of other cultures and nations.

Nevertheless, Jesus is clear about this and it is a good meditation during Lent.

“When you give a luncheon or dinner, do not invite your friends, your brothers or sisters, your relatives, or your rich neighbors; if you do, they may invite you back and so you will be repaid. But when you give a banquet, invite the poor, the crippled, the lame, the blind, and you will be blessed. Although they cannot repay you, you will be repaid at the resurrection of the righteous.” Lk 14: 12-14

Inviting those in real need to eat with you or share your food reminds us that all of us have times in our lives when we cannot provide for ourselves, and the worst thing that can happen to us is to be made to feel foolish or weak by those who supply our basic needs. Jesus gave freely and reminds us to do the same.  "Freely you have received; freely give." Mt 10:8

Today, ask someone for help.

What circumstances make it most difficult for you to ask for help?