We have heard this title phrase used in all manner and all context by the pundants of our day.  By its very existence in our societal memory a harsh truth is delivered.  We measure all things by our comfort level.  The oracles of the past have adjudged that there are seven virtues (four "cardinal” coming from the Latin word that means “hinge of the door”—pivotal) and (three “theological” from God).  The first, “prudence” is not much used of late.  Why would we want to think fully of what we are doing in order to see the likely outcome?  The second, “temperance” has changed its meaning to that of abstinence from alcohol, instead of going the right distance and no further.  The third, “justice” isn’t that which occurs on “Court TV” but rather an attitude of honesty, fairness, truthfulness and keeping promises.  The forth, “fortitude” is a courage that not only faces danger but also stays the course even under pain. The fifth (and first of the “theological virtues”) is “faith.”  Faith is the muscle that calms the emotions and imaginations when circumstances challenge the reason of my belief.  The sixth, “Hope.”  We are looking forward toward eternity with Christ. Our eyes are affixed (glued, cemented) upon the unseen but promised world to come.  The last, “charity.”  The definition of charity has narrowed through the centuries. It now is mostly attached to the word “alms” (giving to the poor).  Its genuine meaning is that of love in the Christian sense, NOT an emotion but rather a state of will.  Charity is an exercise of the inclinations of our soul.  How we exercise determines whether it be virtuous or sinful.  The joy of God’s provision in our employment is one way we can give legs to our love.  “If you are a thief, stop stealing.  Begin using your hands for honest work, and then give generously to others in need.” (Eph 4:28 NLT)  This last part of this last virtue, is the part that forms the undergirding of the Christian morality, that of giving to those in need.  You could postulate that charity is unnecessary since we ought to be producing a society where such needs are nonexistent.  However, one ought not to assume that while we wait for this “great society” to arrive that we ought to NOT give as this would mean an abject departure from reality.  One cannot decide with certainty how much to give.  But by the mercies of Christ we ought to give more than we can spare and do so with a wondrous hilarity.  If not, then we are surely allowing our comfort, luxury, etc. to dictate our assessment.  If the actions of our charity have no sacrifice then they are probably too small. Why? Because our giving, our charity, our love, should be an outward manifestation of that which the Lord of Glory has already wrought within.

It’s the Economy, Stupid!—NOT—It’s our attitude!