I June 2021

 I became flushed with anger against her over this. Then she replied to me, ‘Where are your acts of charity? Where are your righteous deeds? These things are known about you!’

Tobit 2:9-14, NRSV 

In today’s reading we meet Tobit who was a righteous, law abiding Jew. Even when others had abandoned the strict observances of the Jewish Law, Tobit continued to follow these. He was known for his good works including the giving of alms and burying the dead. Prior to the section we hear in today’s reading he had just buried a fellow Israelite. After bathing, he went to rest in a courtyard. While he was resting, the droppings from some sparrows nesting in the wall above him fell into his eyes. Tobit was blinded and the doctors were unable to help him. For a time he was supported by a relative but then his wife Anna needed to work to support her husband. It would seem that her work was appreciated since one day, in addition to payment for her work, she was also given a kid to eat. Tobit did not believe that the kid was a gift but presumed it was stolen and ordered his wife to return it. Anna was understandably annoyed and gave Tobit a piece of her mind. She reminded him that his own life had been marked by good deeds, therefore implying that he had no right to be suspicious when others acted generously. Tobit’s blindness was not just physical – he could not see that his wife’s honest work had deservedly brought reward.

• • What do you think prevented Tobit from recognising the generosity of others?
  • Does our observance of traditions ever get in the way of seeing a bigger picture?

Reflect on and give thanks for the acts of generosity that you have received.

Image – Tobit and Anna – Rembrandt