Of generous ancestry…

Every now and then one of my children will say something like, “I guess I got that from your side of the family.”  Unfortunately, it is often an undesirable trait or physical feature.  I do of course remind them they received all their good looks from me.  It’s obvious, because their mother has kept all hers.

Whether we like it or not, to an extent we are products of our ancestry.  But it’s not all bad.  If you were living in France in the 16th century and you were known as generosus, it would have meant you were of noble lineage known for your courage and magnanimous attitude.  These days, it would mean your family characteristic is generosity.

We each have unspoken ‘standards’ in our psyche which determine that which we consider ‘normal’.  They set our expectations.  Should we find ourselves in a situation that seems we are receiving more plentifully than is usual or even necessary we might say, “Wow!  That’s generous!”  Yes, it could be money.  Even better, it could be love, encouragement, friendship, or the like.  The most important thing is it’s given with no strings attached.  No repayment required.  That’s generosity.

Here’s the delicious twist.  Those of us who call God our father are of a noble lineage noted for generosity.  That ancient book of Proverbs reminds us that a generous person will prosper; and whoever refreshes others will be refreshed.  Genuine generosity is giving abundantly with no expectation of reward.  Yet, in God’s family, the fruit of such generosity is spiritual prosperity and refreshment.  “Wow!  That’s generous!”