Nobody is so poor that he has nothing to give - Daily Bible Reflections August 10, 2016

 

Feast of St. Lawrence, disciple

 

TRAPPED!

 

God loves a cheerful giver. – 2 Corinthians 9:7

 

         Gina was an only child from a well-to-do family in the province. She married an industrious entrepreneur who afforded her a comfortable life complete with many “alalay” (ladies-in-waiting). Unexpectedly widowed in her 50s, she was transformed overnight from being a plain housewife to the steward of her family, the business and a vast fortune.

       In spite of her religiosity, she eventually got so attached to the business and material wealth. She even failed to give fair wages and benefits to her loyal staff. She also had to deal with never-ending family squabbles over corporate leadership,

inheritance and share of profit. In spite of the abundance of her wealth, she was in constant fear of losing everything.

       Gina is now in her eighties. She looks fragile, worn-out and suffers from severe depression. One day, she lamented to her son, “I have done everything for the Lord except to tithe.”

      The Lord has entrusted each one of us with blessings in varying degrees. And to whom much is given, much is  expected. Wealth should not just serve our own purposes alone but is meant to be shared with others. God loves a cheerful giver. Marie Franco (mariefranco_pie@yahoo.com)

 

Reflection: Nobody is so poor that he has nothing to give.

 

Forgive me, Lord, for the times I ignored the needy and failed to feed, clothe or shelter them. Release me from the bondage of wealth so that I can share with others what You’ve graciously entrusted to me.

 

St. Lawrence, deacon and martyr, pray for us.