A WORD FOR TODAY 10 AUGUST 2023

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*A WORD FOR TODAY*

*GENEROSITY CAN NOT MAKE YOU POOR*

_The point is this: he who sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and he who sows bountifully will also reap bountifully.(2 Corinthians 9:6)_

_*It is a mistake to think that those who give, actually have more than they need. It is also not correct to think that those who give are sure of their tomorrow. My dear, it is not correct to think of generosity only in terms of money. Generosity covers a lot of grounds.*_

_Although as Christians we give in order to help people, we also have other higher reasons why we give or why we are generous. This higher reason is the love of God. Christians give because of the love of God. We love our brothers and sisters because of our love for God._

_*Generosity should also be as free as the text above tells us. Everyone is to give as he has made up his mind and not reluctantly or under compulsion. Although a Christian gives freely he is also rewarded for it. The more he gives the more he is rewarded. Hence it is in his interest to keep giving, and giving freely. Generosity increases you!*_

_It is the command of the Lord for us to be generous and the psalmist tells us that it goes well for the man who deals generously and lends. Today’s readings also tell us that God will ensure provisions for the one who gives so that he will always have to give. God multiplies the giver’s resources and ensures there is increase in his harvest of righteousness._

_*One very important thing which the Christian can give is his life and the gospel says that when he gives his life it bears more fruit. Saint Lawrence whom we celebrate today gave his life because of the gospel. Saint Lawrence was a deacon full of love for the poor and a man of humour. He lived his life generously for the poor and also making people happy. This is a perfect example of generosity for us Christians.*_

_Good morning dearest one. Be generous with your smile 😊 today. Stay happy as you do your work and do have a great day. *And may the Almighty God bless you: the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Amen.*_

*Meditation:* 2 Corinthians 9:6b-10 /Psalm 112:1b-2.5-6.7-8.9 / John 12:24-26.

_*Watch-Word:* It goes well for the man who deals generously and lends_

_*God loves a cheerful giver. Be generous with your gifts and talents.*_

(Thursday of the eighteenth week in the ordinary time. Feast of St. Lawrence.)

*© Rev. Fr. Augustine Eleke*