The other night my husband, Derek, and I were talking about what it means to be generous in this season of our lives. When we had something to give we did our best to give it, from paying for someone’s coffee to paying a tuition bill, or helping with a friend’s wedding costs. We wouldn’t be here it it wasn’t for the generosity of friends and we know it matters, it’s indicative of the heart of Jesus. Here we are now, with few extra pennies to give and still eager to give lavishly.
We both agreed that in every season we have something to give. Even if we feel absolutely spent financially or emotionally, there is still something in us to give. It will refresh both the receiver and the giver. Kind words, encouragements, a helping hand, a loving spirit, and cup of coffee, most of those are nearly free and all of those we can give lavishly. I feel like Jericho, my four year old, gets this more than I do. He will whip up “coffee” and ask if we can go give it to friends, or draw pictures and then search for stamps so he can send them in the mail. Generosity isn’t ever about money, it’s about a heart of abundance, a bounty of goodwill extended to those around us regardless if they can pay or praise us back. The best part about giving is just that, giving. Without any strings attached, simply giving.
He quite the hospitable host. You’ll probably end up with a plastic grilled sandwich within 10 minutes of being at our house. Photo by Ivy and Tweed
I can lavish on you prayers, time at my kitchen table while I do my dishes, laughter and stories together under the twinkle lights in my backyard, endless cups of coffee with sweet cream, leisurely strolls through my neighborhood, and a home cooked meal (most likely previously frozen unless my husband made it), and life. I can offer my life. Our greatest gift to the people around us is to be fully alive, fully engaged, loving and kind, gracious and patient. We spend ourselves on one thing or another, we might as well go full steam ahead into authentic relationships and intentional community. A generous life leads to refreshment of our hearts and souls.
To all women- no matter your season you have something to give. It won’t deplete you it will enrich you. It will make you feel more like the woman you were always destined to be. I promise you this.
