The Word of the Day is “grace.” In today’s scripture reading of 2 Corinthians 8:7- 15, St. Paul asks the congregation in Corinth to contribute generously to his collection to relieve Christians in Jerusalem who are suffering from famine.
He states, “As you abound in everything—in faith, in speech, in knowledge, in all diligence, and in your love for us [see] that you abound in this grace also” (vs. 7). The Apostle begins his appeal with the inspiring example of the Macedonians who, despite their poverty and afflictions, have been given the grace of God to contribute abundantly. Now it is the Corinthian’s turn to excel in this grace (vs. 7-8)
THE GRACE OF GIVING
We usually define grace as God's unmerited favor. But here, we find that there is a grace of giving. These two uses of the term are combined in St. Paul’s reminder of the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, who, in His divine kindness and mercy in a profound act of love, became poor for our sakes so that we might become rich with the blessings of salvation (vs. 9; OSB fn. 8:9).
We are familiar with the term “spiritual gift” to refer to the gifts of the Spirit for ministry (Romans 12:6-8). These Spirit-bestowed capabilities are distributed “according to the grace bestowed on each one” (Romans 12:6). But the term “spiritual gift” should more appropriately be rendered “gift of grace” (Strong’s #5486, 270) or “grace-gift.” Therefore, generosity is not just a charitable act but a manifestation of the Holy Spirit who motivates it. Indeed, St. Paul includes it in his lists of “spiritual gifts” (Romans 12:8).
For Reflection
The attitude of our charity is a sure sign of the state of our hearts. Do we give grudgingly, reluctantly, or unwillingly? Or do we give generously, gratefully, and graciously? If it is the latter, our openness to respond to the needs of others is a manifestation of the Holy Spirit dwelling and working within us.
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