The possibility of Lending without any Expectations

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season:  Twenty Third Week :  Thursday*

*Gospel : Lk 6:27-38*

*First Reading : Col 3:12-17*

*Responsorial Psalm : Ps 150:1b-2, 3-4, 5-6*

*The possibility of Lending without any Expectations*

*1) Is it possible to lend without any expectations?*

Even though it is very hard to practice, it is not impossible. 

It is possible to give freely — especially when driven by:

*Love*: A parent caring for a child rarely counts the cost.

*Compassion*: Helping someone in crisis, knowing they can’t repay.

*Faith or conviction*: Believing that acts of kindness are meaningful, even without reward.

These motivations help dissolve the expectation of return — or at least loosen its grip.

*2) It Reshapes Relationships*

When you give or lend without expecting repayment, you stop treating others like debts to be collected. 

You begin to treat them as human beings —  struggling, like you. 

This can transform relationships from transactional to compassionate.

*3) It Frees You Emotionally*

Expectations create emotional baggage. 

If you lend with the hope (or demand) of return, and it doesn't come — you feel resentment. But if you give freely, you protect your peace. The act becomes its own reward.

Generosity without expectation brings inner freedom.

*4) It Imitates Divine Generosity*

In the Christian view, God gives freely — sun, rain, life — even to those who don’t deserve it. 

This verse calls people to live with that same kind of radical grace. Giving is not about justice alone, but mercy.

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

*5) Jesus Lived This Teaching*

Christ Himself embodies this principle:

He healed people who never followed Him.

He fed crowds who later abandoned Him.

He forgave those who crucified Him.

He gave everything, expecting nothing in return, except perhaps our trust — and even that, He does not force.

*6) The Heart of Christian Generosity*

Paul, too, reflects this spirit:

“Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.” (2 Corinthians 9:7)

Giving, lending, helping — the biblical pattern is that it should be voluntary, joyful, and detached from repayment.

*7) What Is the “Reward”?*

Jesus says, “Then your reward will be great.”

But this is not a material transaction. The reward may be:

A deeper intimacy with God

The peace that comes from living like Him

A transformed heart that is less bound by money, pride, or resentment

This is not worldly reward — it is kingdom reward.

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*