Sunday, January 29 - Practicing Generosity

"You will be enriched in every way for your

great generosity." — 2 Corinthians 9:11

          The practice of Extravagant Generosity stretches us to offer our utmost and highest to God rather than to give in a manner that is haphazard, unplanned, reactive, minimalist, mediocre, or mechanical. Extravagant does not correspond with giving that is merely dutiful, required, burdensome, mandated, or simply doing one's part. Extravagant denotes a style and attitude of giving that is unexpectedly joyous, without predetermined limits, from the heart.
          People who practice Extravagant Generosity change their lives in order to become more generous. They become rich in giving. They do not wait to be asked. When they see a need, they step forward to meet it, offering their resources as a means of help. They look at difficult financial times through the eyes of faith rather than of fear. They persist in doing good. They give in all seasons.
          They enjoy giving. They pray and hope and dream about the good they accomplish through their gifts. They consecrate their giving to God. They delight in generosity. They give expecting nothing in return.
          People who practice Extravagant Generosity learn to enjoy things without possessing them, to moderate their acquisitiveness, and to find satisfaction in simpler things. They avoid personal debt as much possible. They save. They avoid overindulgence and waste. Their possessions do not rule them. They aspire, like Paul, to know the secret of being content with what they have. They give thanks in all circumstances. Love is a gift, and life is grace.
          People who practice Extravagant Generosity change lives. Their giving knows no bounds. They are rich toward God.

                    - What obstacles prevent you from giving extravagantly? How would the
                       practice of greater generosity change you?

                    - When was a time you felt God's Spirit move you to give resources
                       beyond what you had previously practiced? How does your giving
                        to God influence other aspects of your life?

Schnase, Bishop Robert (2011-05-01). Practicing Extravagant Generosity. Abingdon Press.