Daily Mass Readings - November 5, 2016 - Giving and Generosity

1. Philippians 4:10-19 - Paul gives thanks for a gift that the Christians in Philippi had given to him in his time of need. He says that he had learned to be content no matter what his circumstance. He also tells them how much he appreciates their concern for him. They love him, and he loves them. Here is what he says.

I have the strength for everything through him who empowers me.Still, it was kind of you to share in my distress.

The sacrifice they had made for him was something precious to God -  a fragrant aroma that benefitted him and them.  His thank you note ended like this.:

My God will fully supply whatever you need,in accord with his glorious riches in Christ Jesus.

2. Psalm 112 talks about being generous and how blessed it is to give to others. Here is a bit of that Psalm. 

 His heart is steadfast; he shall not fear.Lavishly he gives to the poor;his generosity shall endure forever;his horn shall be exalted in glory.

3. 2 Corinthians 8:9 is maybe one of the most astounding verses in the whole Bible. God leads by example. 

Jesus Christ became poor although he was rich,so that by his poverty you might become rich.

4. Luke 16:9-15 talks about using one’s wealth to make friends. Who should we befriend with our money? The world’s way is to give generous gifts to the wealthy and powerful in order to curry favor.   That way someone can accumulate more of this earth’s wealth and power. 

God’s Kingdom isn’t like that. We are to curry the favor of the poor and the needy. We are to be generous with those who may not be able to pay us back or in any way return the favor. Then we will be invited  to sit with them in the Kingdom.  “The poor”  can take on many forms with many different kinds of needs. 

What needs do people typically have? How can I help those who come into my life? I may not have a lot, but I have some time, some abilities, some $, even. I have a listening ear. What do I have that can be shared? What do you have? 

Then there are the destitute. Do we close our hearts to those who have lost everything or maybe never had much to begin with? 

Here is what Jesus says about money. 

No servant can serve two masters.He will either hate one and love the other,or be devoted to one and despise the other.You cannot serve God and mammon.”

Today’s readings are a banquet for the soul. We are being prepared for Advent.