Here’s what (spiritually) happens when we give alms to the poor
When we give alms to the poor, we can’t “see” the full effect of our good deed. Not only does our action benefit the person receiving the gift (hopefully), but it also has an impact on our own soul, greater than we can possibly imagine.
St. John understood that our generosity to the poor can have a profound spiritual effect in our lives. It is an action that helps purify our soul and brings us closer to God. Our generosity during life will have a direct impact on our eternal destination.
As Jesus said to his disciples, “Come, O blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world; for I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me, I was naked and you clothed me, I was sick and you visited me, I was in prison and you came to me” (Matthew 25:34-36).
