Read: 2 Corinthians 9:6-8 NRSV
The point is this: the one who sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and the one who sows bountifully will also reap bountifully. Each of you must give as you have made up your mind, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to provide you with every blessing in abundance, so that by always having enough of everything, you may share abundantly in every good work.
Our generosity is reciprocal. When we give to others, we can expect something in return. What is our reward? This week we will look at a few passages throughout Scripture that encourage us to give generously, freely, and cheerfully. In almost every example, something is promised as a payment of sorts. In our first reading, we learn that the benefits of our generosity take time, like crops that grow a few months after we plant the seeds. Perhaps, like raising a good yield of crops, our generosity also requires discipline. Seeds need water during dry seasons and diligent weeding to thrive. We can’t toss seeds on the ground, walk away, and expect our garden to succeed. God wants us to give cheerfully because He knows we will benefit from our own generosity in the long run. Giving to others promises a future reward.
