Weekly Encouragement August 23rd
Dear Friends,
I want to start off with a four quick items for everyone's schedules.
First, That Man Is You resumes on September 5 at 6:00 a.m. The Core Team is working hard to publicize the ministry, and we're hoping for a big increase in participation from last year's very strong start. If you or a man in your life is looking to grow in their faith alongside other men, this is the program. I'll be happy to help get you enrolled.
Second, a new marriage ministry called Choice Wine will launch on September 20. We will meet twice a month (taking December off) through the end of February. Sign-ups for this will be coming very soon. Be on the lookout. ALL couples of all ages are welcome.
Third, Community Sunday will be on Sunday, September 10 in the Parish Center after the 8:00 a.m., 9:30 a.m., and 11:00 a.m. Masses. Every ministry of the church will have a table set up to tell people about what they do and to enroll new members. Stop by to support your ministry and meet new people!
Fourth, we will have a Blessing of the Garden liturgy and reception on Saturday, September 16 at 9:00 a.m. Please join us to celebrate the beautiful work that has been done to the glory of God on our campus. Refreshments and hospitality will be provided by the Altar Society and the Kingsmen.
Keep reading for my reflection on this week's fruit of the Spirit, "generosity."
God bless you all!
In Christ,
Andrew Petiprin
Director of Community Life
Christ the King Catholic Church
Depictions of generosity in Scripture are many. In the Old Testament, the Law required Israel to leave the edges of their fields unharvested, and not to pick up the gleanings that were left behind by the laborers so that the poor may claim them for free. The wisdom literature is full of verses about generosity. For example, "He has distributed freely, he has given to the poor; his righteousness endures for ever; his horn is exalted in honor" (Psalm 112:9). Also, "He who is kind to the poor lends to the Lord, and he will repay him for his deed" (Proverbs 19:17).
As we know very well, Jesus taught extreme generosity. Moreover, he taught that our giving ought not to be noticed by men, but only by God. In the Sermon on the Mount, he says, "When you give alms, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, so that your alms may be in secret; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you" (Matthew 6:3-4).
Everyone is called to be generous in different ways. Some people have great material wealth, and with that wealth they can make a large-scale difference in the lives of many people. But also, Jesus makes clear that with the great blessing of wealth comes a particularly large spiritual obstacle - it is very easy to make the comforts of life our highest goods. Others have very limited means, but their sacrifices are no less precious, and no less difficult to make.
Let me encourage you all this week to find a new way to be generous. If you're used to giving money, give someone your time or attention instead (or in addition!). If someone annoys you, be generous with them and listen to them anyway. And of course, be receptive to other people's generosity to you. It's good for their soul to help you out!
Prayer:
Father, thank you for your generosity to me. Teach me to serve others, to give and not to count the cost. Help me to give of my self and not ask for a reward, except the reward of knowing that I am doing your will. Through Christ our Lord, Amen.