We read in this week's Parsha Bechukosai about the mitzvah of to help your fellow man before he becomes poor. By lending him money, he can start a business and become self-sufficient. This is better than letting him become poor and only then helping him because, at that point, it will be harder to reestablish himself. Rashi explains, "Do not allow him to fall and collapse altogether, because then it can be difficult to pick him up again [from his dire poverty]. Rather, “support him” while his hand is still faltering [for then it is easier to help him out of his trouble].

The Alshich HaKadesh explains this lesson with a parable:

The street is full of mud, but Reuven is in shape and has no trouble walking. However, he sees someone who is having difficulty keeping his balance. A man calls out to Reuven, "Give the man a hand and help him walk." Reuven replies, "He is still walking, he didn't fall yet. I will leave him be. If he falls, I will help him." It does not take long, and the man indeed slips and falls into the mud and becomes covered with dirt from head to toe. He is in pain from the fall, and his clothes will never be spotless again. Reuven lifts him up, and washes him and his clothing, but he doesn't deserve credit for any of this. Instead, he deserves rebuke and a curse because had he cared, this would have been avoided. This is why the Torah obligates us to support those who are falling before they fall.

We must constantly keep our eyes and ears open so we can be aware of people who are in need. It may not always be apparent who could use our help. Many people are embarrassed or ashamed to ask for help, especially if they have not yet fallen.

Shabbat Shalom,

Heath