You, LORD God, bless everyone who cares for the poor, and you rescue those people in times of trouble (Psalm 41:1, CEV).

Fountain, Butchart Gardens, Victoria, BC — photo by David Kitz

Reflection

This week’s I Love the Psalms theme is rescuing.

Here’s an old saying, “What goes around, comes around.” It’s a handy proverb that applies in many situations. For example, if we are generous, people will in turn be generous with us. Or if we are cruel, at some point we can expect that others will treat us cruelly. In other words, we reap what we sow.

Today’s verse from the Psalms reminds us of this principle.

You, LORD God, bless everyone who cares for the poor, and you rescue those people in times of trouble (Psalm 41:1, CEV).

God will look after us if we will look after others. He will intervene in our lives and provide the help we need. The day is coming when our generosity will be rewarded. Hardhearted stinginess will be rewarded too, but it’s not the kind of reward that any of us want to get.

St. Paul amplifies these thoughts in his letter to the Galatians. You will harvest what you plant. If you follow your selfish desires, you will harvest destruction, but if you follow the Spirit, you will harvest eternal life. Don’t get tired of helping others. You will be rewarded when the time is right, if you don’t give up. We should help people whenever we can, especially if they are followers of the Lord (Galatians 6:7-10).

Response: LORD God, open my eyes to the needs of others today. Show me how I can help in practical ways. Amen.

Your Turn: Have you experienced your generosity coming back to bless you?