That they do good, that they be rich in good works. — These words — coming directly after the statement that the good and pleasant things of this world, which are possessed in so large a share by the “rich,” are, after all, the gifts of God, who means them for our enjoyment — these words seem to point to the highest enjoyment procurable by these “rich” — the luxury of doing good, of helping others to be happy the only enjoyment that never fails, never disappoints.
Ready to distribute, willing to communicate. — In distinguishing between these words, which are nearly synonymous, the first points rather to the hand which generously gives, and the second to the heart which lovingly sympathises.
The first obeys willingly the Master’s charge — “Give to him that asketh;” the second follows that loving command which bids His own to rejoice with those that rejoice, and to mourn with those that mourn.