When the world watched in horror as war broke out in Ukraine, we launched an emergency appeal to help the communities there, in dire need. The response was overwhelming! So many generously stepped up to help people, who they never did, and probably never will, meet.
A question I often get is: “Rabbi, with so many worthy causes and requests, how am I meant to prioritize my charitable giving?”
Interestingly, Judaism does have a hierarchy when it comes to allocating one’s charitable dollars. In general, those closest to you, your family and your local community do take precedence.
However, there is one major exception. We are commanded to ‘leave the corner of your field for the poor’. We ‘leave it’ by totally removing ourselves from the decision of who will benefit from it.
G-d is teaching us something powerful, to know how to give with zero gratification, where you may never know the recipient or enjoy the benefits of your charity.
So today, do something that counts, and then don't count it!