A Spectrum of Generosity

There are two points on the spectrum of generosity. Those who only give, and those who only take. Somewhere in the middle are those who do whatever work they need to do, and simply receive the provision they need to work. No quid pro quo.

Those who only give often find themselves struggling to survive, unable to “take care of themselves,” and overwhelmed by the needs they see and want to fulfill.

Those who only take, find themselves isolated, bitter, and often thinking they still don’t have enough.

Those who simply receive may find themselves most concerned about where the provision might come from, what work they are supposed to be doing, and often separated from the dominant culture.

There’s always a tension. The question is how does one resolve it? Give less? Give more? Pray more?