Solidarity with those most in need is one of the most important values in the message of the Gospel. Jesus taught through his words and his example that loving God also means loving and helping people who suffer, who have less, or who are in difficult situations. During the season of Lent, we are invited to reflect on our lives and to practice three fundamental actions: prayer, fasting, and almsgiving. These practices help us strengthen our faith and remind us that sharing with others is a concrete way of living the Gospel.
Solidarity does not consist only of giving material things, but also of showing compassion, closeness, and service toward those who need it most. Many times we can help through small gestures: listening to someone who is sad, sharing what we have, supporting a person going through difficulties, or collaborating with those who live in poverty. These acts reflect God’s love in our daily lives.
Jesus always showed great sensitivity toward the poor, the sick, and the marginalized. In the Gospel, many examples are presented in which he approaches those who suffer to offer them help and hope. In the Gospel of Matthew, Jesus reminds us of the importance of serving others when he says: “For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat; I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink; I was a stranger and you welcomed me” (Matthew 25:35). With these words, Jesus teaches that every gesture of help toward a person in need is also an act of love toward God.
Lent is a special time to practice solidarity. During these forty days, we are invited to look beyond ourselves and recognize the needs of others. Almsgiving, which is part of Lenten practices, is not only about giving money, but about generously sharing what God has given us. It also means dedicating time, attention, and affection to those who need it.
The example of Jesus invites us to imitate his attitude of service. He himself taught that true leadership is shown by serving others. In the Gospel this teaching is remembered when he says: “Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant” (Matthew 20:26). This phrase shows us that true greatness is not found in power or wealth, but in the ability to help and serve others with humility.
In Dominican spirituality, solidarity and service occupy a fundamental place. This tradition promotes the search for truth, the preaching of the Gospel, and commitment to justice and helping those most in need. Living this value means acting with social responsibility, being sensitive to the suffering of others, and working to build a more just and fraternal society.
Furthermore, solidarity also strengthens the community. When people help one another, bonds of trust, respect, and love are created. The apostle Paul reminded believers of the importance of sharing generously when he wrote: “Do not forget to do good and to share with others what you have” (Hebrews 13:16). This call remains relevant and necessary in a world where many people live in situations of poverty, loneliness, or injustice.
In conclusion, solidarity with those most in need is a concrete way of living the Gospel. During Lent we have the opportunity to renew our commitment to love of neighbor through almsgiving, service, and sharing. To imitate Jesus means to open our hearts to those who suffer and to act with generosity. Every act of help, no matter how small it may seem, contributes to building a more humane, more just world that is closer to the message of Christ.
