Giving from a spirit of gratitude towards Christ

Christian disciples are called to give something--"time, talent, treasure"--for the sake of supporting their churches and their evangelical missions. Yet, the Church has never defined how much, whether it be the traditional 10% tithe or not. Why? Out of the wisdom to avoid giving becoming mechanical, instead suggesting that it should be on the basis of ability, according to vocation. But even more important is the reason for giving. Less important (though still important) is the amount than the spirit in which it is given, namely that of gratitude: for the gift of present liberation wrought in the death of Jesus Christ, and for the gift of future eternal life wrought in his resurrection. "God loves a cheerful giver" (2 Cor 9:7). "How grateful are you?" A question that Christian disciples must ask each day as they discern the generosity that the Lord is calling them to.

 

-Given at the St. Thomas Aquinas Chapel (UST-St. Paul) on September 18, 2020