From today’s reading...
Brothers and sisters:
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.” 2 Corinthians 9:6-7
So many of you are, how can I say this...ah...nicely?
Maybe I can't. So here goes...
So many of you are just arrogant, condescending, cheerful givers of your opinions and beliefs with the expectation that we should do as you say, not as you do.
“Whoa! Whoa! Whoa! Hold on a dad-gum minute there, Cowboy! Is that any way to talk to us on this here preacher post thingy you do every day? You’re supposed to be spreading sunshine and feel-good mumbo jumbo. And you need more background music. And better lighting. And at least three cameras. And you need long, pregnant pauses and more whispering and close your eyes and promise me a rose garden on these daily readings. THAT’S how you reap and sow happiness and goodwill and cheer and build a big social media following and get big donations so you can buy nicer suits and a private jet. So back the truck up and start again!…I’m waiting.”
See what I mean?
To be a cheerful giver in today’s noisy, angry, fearful world requires more listening. Give more of your time and attention. Put the phone down. Close the laptop. Let the calls go to voicemail. Be present.
Most of the time we have the answers within us but we are so worried and distracted we can’t hear ourselves think.
So while money is tight and the future is uncertain and gyms are closing and restaurants are not serving and riots are roaring and politicians are lying and governors are threatening and our masks are suffocating and our socializing is distant, be a cheerful giver of your ear.
Don’t seek to give advice or recommendations or instructions or ridicule or condemnation.
Just seek to be present, which is the only way to...
Stay the course.
Keep the faith.
Endure.
Now go sell something.
