While following Christ can sometimes be treated as a primarily mental or seasonal activity, the reality is that discipleship engages the whole person. But effort alone does not make a disciple. Discipline forms us only when it is ordered toward relationship with Jesus Christ.

"The practice of almsgiving is a reminder of God’s primacy and turns our attention towards others."

Benedict XVI, Lenten Message 2010

 St. Paul often compares discipleship to athletic training – not to glorify effort, but to clarify intention (cf. 1 Cor 9:24–27).

Running the Race: Almsgiving

A runner could spend a lifetime in the gym, perfecting form and building endurance. But a life spent perpetually “in training” misses the point.

At some point, the race must be run. In the same way, Christian discipleship does not remain interior. If it does, something has stalled. Almsgiving is where our formation becomes action.

Almsgiving is a concrete act of love for the neighbor. When we give alms, we offer ourselves to those in need. This need not be dramatic or distant.

It may take the form of shared time, presence, attention, or material support— given to real people, in real situations.

We give in this way because Christ first gave Himself for us. Following Him means allowing our lives to be given for the sake of others.

Almsgiving comes from the heart, but it always costs something. That cost – whether of time, comfort, attention, or resources – is what makes love real rather than abstract.

Almsgiving also costs us control.  It places us in situations where we cannot manage outcomes, fix everything, or remain untouched.
In that way, it forms not only generosity, but humility – the willingness to receive Christ through those we serve.

Offerings, when born of love, not only alleviate the needs of one’s brother or sister, but also purify the heart of the giver, if he or she is willing to change.

Pope Leo XVI, Dilexi Te

Almsgiving does let compassion stay theoretical.  It forces us into encounter. 

Our measure for almsgiving is not generosity alone, but the self-gift of Christ Himself. Almsgiving bears fruit when it flows from encounter with Christ – not when it is used to compensate for a Gospel that has not yet been named.

For a deeper reflection on almsgiving shaped by surrender rather than surplus, Evangelizing Through Almsgiving: Giving Like the Poor Widow explores how small, costly acts of trust reveal the heart of the Gospel.

Back to Lent is Not a Reset Button

Quote from "Prayer, Fasting, and Almsgiving: They're Not Just For Lent Anymore" by Fr. Sergius Halvorsen.