Move Beyond Pity

Widows in ancient times were to be pitied and granted favors, but of course, those filled with the Spirit had a tendency to turn perceptions upside down. So we find widows in the Bible who are models of faithfulness (1 Kings 17), insight (Luke 2), righteousness (Luke 18), and generosity (Luke 21). Whom do you pigeonhole as pitiable? Homeless people? The undocumented? People with mental and physical disabilities? No doubt the people you feel sorry for can benefit from your concern and care, but they might surprise you with gifts of their own that will enrich you.