Generosity Is a Blessing
Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work. 2 Corinthians 9:6-8
Reflection
Some people love to give. Whether it is through monetary donations, acts of service, or the gift of time, there are those who thrive on giving to others. It makes them feel good, and they experience it as a blessing. I used to know one family that was generous in every way imaginable. They gave sacrificially to the church’s ministry. They regularly opened their home to others and shared the gift of hospitality. They put in a lot of time in service to their church and their community. At the same time, they were incredibly supportive of their family and friends. These people were a delight to be around and not just because they would give you food or do things to help you. Above all else, it was their attitude that made them a pleasure to be with. This is because they practiced their generosity with joy and gladness. They were cheerful givers.
In our reading, Paul encourages us to be cheerful, generous givers. As he says, you can’t do this with reluctance or under external pressure. You can only be cheerfully generous because you want to be, because you decide to be. It is no blessing for someone to give sacrificially and then complain about it or act like a martyr. Who wouldn’t prefer such people to keep their gifts and keep silent? Real joy is found when people give of themselves because they want to, because they enjoy it, and because they find it a personal blessing to bless others.
As stewards of God’s gifts, it is our calling to become cheerfully generous, to give freely and regularly to God’s work in the world. We do so not just with money but with our time, our acts of service, and the way we use our abilities and talents. Such stewardship is not a chore or a burden but a liberating act of love for God and the world God has created. The challenge is in rising to this level of love and faith.
Activity
As you go about your daily activities, look for opportunities to give. Many stores and restaurants have collection boxes for charitable causes. Sometimes you will encounter people raising money by selling cookies, coupon books, or flowers. Make up your mind to give cheerfully to every charitable opportunity you encounter for one day. If someone asks for your help, cheerfully say yes. If someone wants to talk and needs you to listen, cheerfully sit down and give them your time. If only for a day, cheerfully give of yourself. See how it feels. Perhaps it is a practice you will want to continue.
Prayer
God of Creation, You are the giver of every good gift: My possessions, my abilities, and my life itself come from You and will return to You. Forgive me when I fail to be grateful or refuse to share. Open my eyes to Your amazing generosity, and return me to the path of faithful stewardship. Help me to give freely and joyfully so that I might truly reflect Your nature. Thank You for giving so much to me: in Jesus’ name. Amen.
Key Thought: The goal of stewardship is to give freely and joyfully so that we might share God’s love.
