Newsletter article

Generosity, a Gift of the Spirit

"Love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, faithfulness,

gentleness, and self-control"

From Galatians 5:22-23

In this ongoing series on this list of the gifts of the Spirit, an image of a pyramid has been used. The idea is that Joy is more possible when there is first Love. Peace, patience and the others are natural "by-products" (not the right word, but it will do) of a strong foundation of Love and Joy. As I mentioned before, it's likely that the Apostle Paul does not have this shape in mind. He probably listed gifts as they came to mind, as they have been shown to him through the experience of the community of faith. But the pyramid shape might still be helpful to us as we think about the gifts of the Spirit.

Now, generosity. I'm writing this from home today because I have been battling a cold and I have a nine-year-old to watch after. A member of the congregation just came to my front door and presented me with a few envelopes. One had more monetary gifts for the family our church is helping this Christmas. With these gifts added in, there will be nearly $500 to use strategically to help a family in our community. These gifts along with the many other gifts purchased for the family are given simply because that family has a need and we have the desire to share. There's generosity if I have ever seen it. Over the years our congregation has been able to touch the lives of many people, asking nothing in return. We just wanted to be able to practice the generosity that we experience from God. The families we help are so thankful. It's a humbling experience to be the giver.

The other envelope contained a beautiful card and generous gift of money for my family and me. We have been so blessed by this community but especially St. Paul Lutheran Church. We have a very deep and sincere gratitude for the generosity and love that we have experienced in our faith community. Thank you!

According to one etymological dictionary, "generous" has an original literal meaning "of noble birth." Those who are generous are showing they are of noble birth. That's quite interesting, isn't it? It assumes a position of power, but power used in the best of ways. So when you are generous, you are giving from a position of strength. You're sharing your strength so that your neighbor can become stronger. The miracle of generosity is that generosity grows when it is given. I think that's because it is a gift of the Spirit, and when the Holy Spirit is involved, there is abundant supply. And as we are turning our hearts and minds toward Christmas and Epiphany, we remember that Jesus is the One who is of most "noble birth."

You know when you've received from someone's generosity. Remember, it is one of the ways God touches your life. If you have love, peace, patience and kindness, generosity will easily follow.

Pastor James Aalgaard