Give and gifts will be given to you - What are we to Give?

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Lenten Season: Second Week: Monday*

*Gospel : Lk 6:36-38*

*First Reading : Dn 9:4b-10*

*Responsorial Psalm : Ps 79:8, 9, 11 and 13*

*Give and gifts will be given to you - What are we to Give?*

*1) The Important aspects of Giving*

Jesus teaches that giving goes beyond material things. 

In His teaching Jesus  calls us to give the following divine things 

*Love* – “Love your enemies, do good to them, and lend to them without expecting to get anything back.” (Luke 6:35)

*Forgiveness* – “Forgive, and you will be forgiven.” (Luke 6:37)

*Compassion* – “Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful.” (Luke 6:36)

*Material Support* – “Sell your possessions and give to the poor.” (Luke 12:33)

*Time and Service* – “Whoever wants to be first must be your servant.” (Mark 10:44)

*The Gospel* – “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation.” (Mark 16:15)

*2) Reward for Giving*

God has a special measure of giving the favours to his beloved children 

The measure is like this *Pressed down, Shaken Together, and Running Over"*

It draws from an ancient marketplace practice where grain or other goods were measured out to a buyer. Let’s break it down:

*Pressed Down*

This refers to compacting grain or flour in a measuring container to make room for more. 

Instead of loosely filling the measure, the giver ensures it is packed tightly, maximizing the quantity given. 

It symbolizes God's generous provision, ensuring we receive in full measure when we give.

*Shaken Together*

Shaking the container helps settle the contents, further eliminating empty spaces and making even more room. 

This represents God refining and perfecting our blessings, ensuring we get the most out of what He gives

*Running Over*

After pressing and shaking, the container overflows—more than expected or deserved.

This reflects God’s extravagant generosity, where He blesses beyond measure.

*3) Principle of Generosity in God’s kingdom*

*God's generosity exceeds our own* : The imagery of *pressed down, shaken together, and running over* reflects an overflowing blessing, meaning that when we give with a sincere heart, God responds with abundant grace.

*Giving transforms our hearts* :  When we give selflessly, we become more like Christ, who gave His life for us.

*Faith is required* : Giving without expecting in return requires trust that God will provide for us.

*4) Spiritual Meaning of Giving*

*God’s generosity surpasses human standards* : When we give freely, God multiplies blessings beyond our expectations.

*God doesn’t give sparingly*:  He ensures our lives overflow with His grace, love, and provision.

*The way we give determines what we receive*:  If we give generously (not just material things but love, kindness, and forgiveness), we will receive back in abundance.

*Think about it*

*God bless you and your family. Praying for you and your dear ones*

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*