But if a widow has children or grandchildren, let them first learn to show godliness to their own household and to make some return to their parents, for this is pleasing in the sight of God. 1 Timothy 5:4 ESV
Volunteering at the local soup kitchen, donating funds to noble causes or participating in any activity to assist the less fortunate are some of the many ways to share the love of God. However, prior to journeying outside of our familiar network, I Timothy 5:4 teaches us charity begins at home. Before we reach to save the world, we are instructed to practice extending goodness towards those who are blood related and those who we share the bond of family. The extension of goodness is not just tangible. It can also be intangible which impact lasts when tangible items have faded away. The starting place for the act to reciprocate love and kindness, emphasized within the verse, is towards parents and grandparents. Although some of us did not have the experience having parents or grandparents, the requital includes those who cared enough to fill in where parents were absence. The depth or the quality of the act is not predicated on what was received by us. It is based on how God treats us. We ought to forgive because we have been forgiven. Choosing to love family members despite shortcomings, as God had loved and continues to love us when we miss the mark. When we have master the art of loving those who are near, it prepares us to love those who are afar.
“God is pleased when we requite those who took care of us in our youth”_ASA
Chronicles of ASA 