Take Five today and consider doing a random act of kindness Saturday, December 6 Feast of Nicholas, bishop Can you keep a secret? Recognition fuels most gift-giving. That’s why buildings are named after big benefactors. The practice of secret gift giving, so much associated with fourth-century Saint Nicholas—the archetypal Santa Claus—is beautiful because it is generosity at its purest. There is no payback or payoff possible, even the warm feeling that comes from hearing “Thank you so much!” which we all appreciate when acting generously. Giving anonymously is both more challenging and more enriching than the usual gifting rituals because it puts our generosity to the true test. Can we give without any hope of return or any expectation of recognition? If we truly believe that God sees our every act, then we know that even our secret generosity is noted by the One who matters most. Today’s readings: Isaiah 30:19-21, 23-26; Matthew 9:35-10:1, 5a, 6-8 (180). “At the sight of the crowds, his heart was moved with pity for them.” preparetheword
Posted on: Sat, 06 Dec 2014 14:05:18 +0000
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