Giving away clothes and toys to charity is a good way to practice almsgiving. But just giving away things we don’t want or use anymore can be more like an act of closet cleaning than an act of sacrifice. So when you are gathering your items to give to charity consider including at least one item you use frequently and enjoy. And don’t go out and replace it right away.
This can be especially powerful when done with children or teenagers. It is a good way to teach young Catholics to be less attached to material goods during Lent. Hopefully they can experience a sense of freedom which comes from giving something significant.
Take the time to read the story of the poor widow together before deciding what to offer. Discuss how this relates to giving away something you like and use.
The Poor Widow’s Contribution – When he looked up he saw some wealthy people putting their offerings into the treasury and he noticed a poor widow putting in two small coins. He said, “I tell you truly, this poor widow put in more than all the rest; for those others have all made offerings from their surplus wealth, but she, from her poverty, has offered her whole livelihood.” – Luke 21:1-4
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