Proverbs 22:1-2, 8-9, 22-23

Pentecost +14 - Year B

Proverbs 22:1-2, 8-9, 22-23

A good name is important. Being able to self-identify is important. When we play games with names we are on dangerous territory. When we identify another contrary to their self-identity we are blaspheming.

Generosity is a blessed event. To share bread or healing or compassion with another is to join their life, to lift both our lives. When we threaten to block generosity or otherwise waste it we are setting ourselves up to loose the gift we have.

Intentionally defend the poor until it becomes second-nature or seemingly unintentional. Defending the poor with their correct human name and modeling generosity, speeds up G*D’s justice since it seems to grind along slowly and through such vehicles as you, and me.

   - Listen to the way people self-identify and use that same language.
   - Be generous and be blessed.
   - Join G*D in coming to the defense of the poor.