Greetings!    

Recognizing Generosity 

I stood with the cash box swinging open in my hand and watched as twenties, tens, fives and ones whooshed up in the air in several directions. Quarters and dimes spilled and rolled down the street. It was a windy day on campus; I started chasing the money to recoup what I could.

Suddenly, miraculously, dozens of women came running---black, brown and white in their matching suits and hats, jeans and long dresses, wives and old women, girls and their mothers---sweeping the air with their hands, chasing and gathering the many lost coins. And bringing it all back.

Through these years of economic woes, we have not often witnessed these acts of kindness. We have wrung our hands, prayed, studied and hoped for better days. It has been a hard time in our lives, our churches, our communities.

There is, though, a continuing and inspiring culture of generosity among us---responding to the bully, feeding the hungry, giving to the ministry---a subversive, countercultural way of living. It is "steadfast love and not sacrifice, the knowledge of God rather than burnt offerings" (Hosea 6:6).

Matthew Tennant has written Preaching in Plenty and in Want and Debra Mumford Exploring the Prosperity Preaching as resources that reflect on different values for these days. Suggestions and sermons are available in Clifford Jones's The Star Book on Stewardship. For individuals, Money on Purpose, by Shayna Lear, provides everyday guidance.

How do we thrive as generous people in the midst of diminished resources? What has been your experience? 

Add your comments to the notes on our Facebook page, or send me an email. We look forward to hearing from you. 

Laura Alden

Publisher, Judson Press