CONNECTING POINT: TOGETHER - The Full Measure of Generosity

Societies have long deemed money and possessions to be the mark of success. A fancy house, a brand new Ford F-350, or the false security of a swollen bank account- these seem to be “The American Dream.” Jesus addressed the topic of money a lot. Throughout the Bible, we find advice and instruction on how to live a balanced life, including wise management of our possessions and valuing our relationships as our top priority.

Since money and possessions vary amongst us, one common denominator we have is time. Last I checked, we all share 24 hours in a day. Certainly, our work, family responsibilities, and leisure time are flexible. I would like you to consider relational generosity. No one takes their possessions with them to the grave; our relationships are eternal.

Acts chapter 2 is about this. How you and I spend our time is important to God. Christians shared, and deeply. Every aspect of their lives was on the table; they enjoyed spending time together and sharing their possessions.

Sadly, we can be greedy with our time and develop rigid agendas for the day. Interruptions in our daily routine can set us off and lead us down the road to frustration. Jesus lived in a balanced fashion, being available for people and setting boundaries for quietness and prayer. A good practice for each of us is to contemplate what barriers exist in our relationships, especially those of our own making. Are we generous with our time?

Establishing healthy relationships includes prioritizing people over possessions. Pastor and author Ben Mandrell says, “We underestimate how important it is to invest relationally in people by just showing up in their lives.”

Mandrell goes on to list life’s three primary areas we should examine: the high moments, the low pits, and transition points.

First, the high moments. People often remember when we show up at times of celebration; this demonstrates that we live connected and believe in community. Of course, we need to be balanced because it is impossible to be present in every situation. Check your intentions. What do they tell you?

Second, the low pits. When people are at their lowest, anxiety, sorrow, and physical pain are often lessened by a comforting shoulder. Even in silence, our presence speaks volumes of love.

Third, the transitional points in life, i.e., changes at work, marriage and divorce, moving to another community, losing a loved one, etc. I will be the first to admit that I am not Superman. I consciously make it a priority to reach out to people in times of need. Several months ago, I apologized to a dear couple I know for not being present with them when he was going through chemo treatment. Life had taken them in a different direction, and we did not see each other regularly. Their response was full of grace and kindness, and it is moments like this that draw our hearts closer together.

Generosity of self, all the money in the world cannot buy. It is Christ-like.