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The Principle of Giving

I’m man enough to admit I teared up in a children’s bookstore after picking up The Giving Tree and began to skim the book’s contents.

The story begins by introducing a young boy and a tree who share a close bond. The tree loves the boy deeply and enjoys spending time with him. The boy climbs her trunk, swings from her branches, eats her apples, and rests in her shade.

As time passes, the boy grows older, and his needs change. He visits the tree less frequently, but whenever he does, the tree remains happy to give whatever she can to make the boy happy.

Years later, the boy, now an elderly man, returns. The tree, now a stump, apologizes for having nothing left to give. The now-grown boy, weary and needing only a quiet place to rest, finds comfort in sitting on the tree’s remaining stump. Even in this state, the tree is happy to provide what the boy needs.

The tree’s willingness to give everything it has without expecting anything in return highlights the nature of true generosity.

Giving is a fundamental principle in the Bible. It reflects God's generosity and our trust in Him. 2 Corinthians 9:7 tells us that our giving should come from the heart, not out of obligation or guilt.

When we give, we acknowledge that everything we have already belongs to God. Our giving should be an act of worship, an expression of gratitude for God's blessings. It’s also a way to participate in His work here on earth, supporting the Church and helping those in need.

In becoming generous, we mirror God’s generosity. In Malachi 3:10, God challenges us to bring our gift into the storehouse and promises to open the windows of Heaven and pour out blessings.

As you reflect on your giving, consider the motives behind it. Are you giving out of love and gratitude or a sense of duty? Ask God to help you develop a heart that delights in giving, knowing He can multiply your efforts and bless others through your generosity.

Prayer: Lord, help me to be a cheerful and generous giver. Teach me to give from my heart and to trust in Your provision. May my giving be an act of worship that honors You and blesses others. Amen.

Reflection: What steps can you take to cultivate a more generous and joyful spirit of giving?