Whoever
sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows bountifully will also
reap bountifully. Each must do as already determined, without sadness or
compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. Moreover, God is able to make every
grace abundant for you, so that in all things, always having all you need, you
may have an abundance for every good work. 2 Corinthians 9:6-8
“Amen,
amen, I say to you, unless a grain of wheat falls to the ground and dies, it
remains just a grain of wheat; but if it dies, it produces much fruit.
John 12:24
Piety
Chapter 57: On the Artisans of the Monastery
If there are artisans in the monastery, let
them practice their crafts with all humility, provided the Abbot has given
permission.
Study
God is generous in showering us with abundant
grace. Therefore, Paul encourages us to
reflect that same generosity toward others. We know that the Lord is capable of
overwhelming generosity even to the point of giving up his mortal body and life
for us. Therefore, like the people
gathered on the hillside last week when we studied the loaves and fish story,
we should not fear being caught short of food, money or the love of God. The Lord will provide what we need in
abundance for both our hierarchy of needs and increasing spirituality.
However, imitating Christ has its price. We must leave behind our very nature, our
very selves as we take up his nature. On
the one hand, such action has its benefits.
“Whoever serves me must follow me, and where I am,
there also will my servant be.” However,
just as we will share in the glory, we also will share in the cross.
Action
Today’s challenge is to reflect generosity. For God loves a cheerful and humble giver who
uses her or his talents for the good of the community.
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