| "And if a soul offers a meal offering to Hashem" (Vayikra 2:1)
The word "soul" is not mentioned in reference to voluntary offerings except for the meal offering. Who typically donates a meal offering? A poor person. Hashem says, "I consider it as if he has offered his very soul" (Rashi).
Reb Noson explains that true tzedakah (charity) is given for the sake of increasing Hashem's honor—giving with no expectation of receiving anything in return, just as the donations for the Mishkan were given selflessly. True charity is given with the humility of the poor person mentioned in the parshah, with the awareness that everything belongs to Hashem, and it is a privilege to be able to give.
However, when someone gives charity for honor, or because they feel socially obligated and uncomfortable withholding, and then ignores opportunities to give real tzedakah, this empowers forces of judgment to overpower forces of divine kindness. Of course, there are countless levels in this matter.
King David reached the ultimate level of selfless giving, as stated in Divrei HaYamim regarding his preparation for the Beis HaMikdash: "And in my poverty, I have prepared for the House of Hashem silver and gold…" (Chronicles I 22:14). We, too, should always strive to give generously and with true devotion. Through this, we will merit drawing down the ultimate rectification of Hashem's eternal kindness into this world. Fortunate are we!
Shabbat Shalom! | 
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