Generosity is not a single act; it’s a lifestyle that transforms hearts and echoes eternity.
Many young baseball fans dream about the ultimate prize of attending a professional game—catching a foul ball. At a 2011 Arizona Diamondbacks game, twelve-year-old Ian did just that, but then to the amazement of everyone in the stands, he gave the ball away.
When a foul ball came toward Ian but was snagged by an usher, the usher tossed the ball to the disappointed boy. Thrilled, Ian showed his prize to his Father. However, people pointed out a distraught younger boy who had missed the ball nearby. Without hesitation, Ian gave his prized possession to the boy.
Diamondbacks announcer Mark Grace was stunned, exclaiming, “That is big time, right there! That is awesome. You, young man, are a star.” For his generosity, Ian was rewarded with a trip to the announcers’ booth, tickets to a future game, and an autographed bat from his favorite player. You can watch it here: https://youtu.be/QfF1m3-Dl_Q
Live With Generosity Unchecked
The previous three weeks have examined living out certain portions of the totality of generosity: giving, encouraging, and doing. This week looks at living those things out on a full-time basis. As we discussed in week 1, we have to rely on Christ for the sake of our hearts becoming generous. The idea now is to allow that development to occur unchecked.
Chemistry has the concept of a “limiting reactant.” A chemical reaction will always include a chemical that is the reason the reaction eventually fizzles out. It’s generally the chemical that there is less of than the other(s). Once the least of the chemicals is entirely spent, the reaction ceases. In this vein of thought, we can think of ourselves as the limiting reactant. We can see this reaction out as near or far as we choose. Where the burden of development falls upon Christ, the burden of allowance falls upon us. Let us not cut short the work of God in our lives.
If we choose to take the bridle off generosity, we might find that it cannot limit itself to a singular facet we’ve discussed. It must be all of those things all of the time. In Matthew 5:48, Jesus challenges us to be perfect as our heavenly Father is perfect. While this may seem like an impossible task, it is essential to understand that Jesus is calling us to strive for a level of holiness that reflects the love and generosity of our Heavenly Father. This perfection is not about flawlessness but about embodying God’s love, mercy, and generosity daily. As we allow God’s generosity to overflow within us, we become more like Him, embodying the spirit of generosity in every aspect of our lives.
Practice Generosity Daily
Practicing only occasional generosity does not satisfy Christ’s call upon our lives. Generosity must take us over. Let’s be doers of generous actions and have an abundant existence. Here are some specific examples of practicing generosity in daily life:
- Volunteering at our local food bank.
- Offering support to a neighbor in need, such as helping with yard work or providing a listening ear.
- Giving to a charity that aligns with your values and convictions.
Answer the Call to Give
As we conclude, let us reiterate the importance of generosity as a lifestyle. On Sunday, the 14th, we will take a collection to support the missionaries reaching the small unreached communities around Tixtla de Guerrero, Mexico. Pray about what God calls you to give towards missions, and consider how you can make generosity an integral part of your walk with Christ. Let us not be limited by fear or hesitation but instead embrace the spirit of generosity God desires for us. In doing so, we will be living a life that genuinely reflects the love and generosity of our Heavenly Father.