Reflection

Generosity and Gratitude

In last Sunday’s Gospel, Jesus calls attention to a poor widow who makes the smallest of contributions to the Temple—two coins of little value. Jesus upholds the poor widow’s offering for his disciples’ consideration, commending her because her small offering was an act of profound generosity, giving from her livelihood rather than her surplus.

To give from our livelihood is not only an act of generosity, it is also an act of trust in God. We can only give from our need if we trust that God will provide for us. Jesus himself demonstrates the ultimate act of generosity and trust in God as he gives his life for us on the cross.

God promises happiness to the giver. '...it is more blessed to give than to receive'. (Acts 20:35). We at Nazareth College, have responded with generosity in many ways this year including giving to the St Vinnies Christmas appeal which is running until 17 November.  

Generosity can be prompted by gratitude. Catholics can change the world by being 'bearers of gratitude', Pope Francis said at one of his general audiences late last year. In his address on 30 December, the pope said that thanksgiving was a hallmark of an authentic Christian life. He said, 'Above all, let us not forget to thank: if we are bearers of gratitude, the world itself will become better, even if only a little bit, but that is enough to transmit a bit of hope'.

 At the heart of our relationship with God is gratitude. 'Rejoice evermore. Pray without ceasing. In everything give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you'. (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18) 

As we near the end of the year, we need to be thankful for the blessings so far, despite the Covid lockdowns and restrictions. Being truly thankful requires us to look beyond our current circumstances - whether blessings or struggles - and look to God, our true source of blessings. It's easy to give thanks to God when we can physically see and touch his blessings but what happens when feeling thankful is hard? How can we truly live a thankful life? We need to open our eyes to see the gifts we’ve given us in our lives: food, money, clothes, good health, good education, family. 

 May we continue to have an 'attitude of gratitude' in our lives. May we be generous givers in whatever way we can.

Holy Family of Nazareth, be our inspiration and our guide.

Jesus of Nazareth, help us to grow in Faith, Wisdom and Knowledge.