“Clothe yourselves with ... kindness.”

A kind person benefits himself, but a cruel person brings himself trouble. (Proverbs 11:17)

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Splendid reception, rich and noble guests — such feasts the Lord does not always approve of. (See Luke 14:12-14.)

He knows what often motivates the rich to invite their neighbors: the hope that they should be invited back, a selfish and squalid motive.

The greedy never invite to partake of their dinner those who would not be able to return the favor; but the generous often called in the poor and suffering, or sent portions to their houses.

Job appealed to God, saying, “Have I been stingy with my food and refused to share it with orphans?” (Job 31:17)

And Nehemiah on a day of celebration said to the people of Israel, “You may go now; refresh yourselves with rich food and sweet drinks, and send a share to all who cannot provide for themselves.” (Nehemiah 8:10)

“Since God chose you to be the holy people He loves, you must clothe yourselves with ... kindness...” (Colossians 3:12).

Yes, you may find other ways of giving relief and pleasure to the poor aside from giving feasts to them. It is the attitude of kindness which ought to be followed, though the means may vary.

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