CHARITY IS LOVE

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 CHARITY IS LOVE


But give as alms those things that are within, and behold, everything is clean for you.
Luke 11:41 ESV



¶We might think of charity (alms-giving) in several ways. We may think of charity as establishing our name, paying our dues, doing our part to get off the hook. We may be virtue-signaling ourselves as "social justice warriors" making restitution for past injustices. We can consider at least a portion of our "charitable giving" as a tax write-off. We may think of charity as proof of our salvation. We can think of charity in investment terms, laying up for ourselves treasures in heaven. We may think of charity in utilitarian terms as a way of making the world a better place for ourselves and our loved ones. We may think of charity in evolutionary terms, as that which contributes to the survival of the species. None of these motives originate from within. But consider...



Romans 13:8 Owe nothing to anyone except to love one another; for the one who loves his neighbor has fulfilled the Law.


2 Cor 9:7 Each one must do just as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.


Charity is love, literally. Why is charity the KJV translation of the word "love" (agape)? Jesus wants the motivation for our good works to be from a heart that is pure. He is willing and able to purify it for us. He wants us to come: 


 
Just as I am, and waiting not

To rid my soul of one dark blot;

To Thee whose blood can cleanse each spot,


 
Just as I am, though tossed about

With many a conflict, many a doubt;

Fightings within, and fears without,

 
O Lamb of God, I come, I come!


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