Give

I don't know about you, but today's readings (2 Corinthians 9:6-10 & John 12:24-26) challenge me.

They are a reminder that I have a long way to go as a Christian.

I need to give more: more of my time, more of my money, more of the talents and the things I have. I need to do more for others with the little knowledge and abilities I have.

Of course, I should not abandon prudence, but neither should I confuse prudence with fear.

Whoever sows sparingly
will also reap sparingly,
and whoever sows bountifully
will also reap bountifully.

Each must do as already determined,
without sadness or compulsion,
for God loves a cheerful giver.

Moreover,
God is able to make every grace abundant for you,
so that in all things,
always having all you need,
you may have an abundance for every good work.

As it is written:

He scatters abroad,
he gives to the poor;
his righteousness endures forever.

The one who supplies seed to the sower
and bread for food
will supply and multiply your seed
and increase the harvest of your righteousness.

Jesus said to his disciples:

"Amen, amen, I say to you,
unless a grain of wheat
falls to the ground and dies,
it remains just a grain of wheat;
but if it dies, it produces much fruit.

Whoever loves his life loses it,
and whoever hates his life in this world
will preserve it for eternal life.

Whoever serves me must follow me,
and where I am, there also will my servant be.

The Father will honor
whoever serves me."