Tag: Generosity

The Four Signs of a Dynamic Catholic 3/4 – Generosity

Generosity or charity is the life of a Christian-Catholic. This attribute is of monumental importance and at the same time, the very essence of what it means to be Catholic. We only need to think of Jesus Christ who was the Servant of all. Even the Vicar of Christ, the Pope, is called to be the ‘servant of the servants of God.’ To put it simply, to be Catholic is to give our lives  to God and to our neighbour without expecting anything in return for “you received without pay, give without pay.” (Mt 10:8).

The only way to be truly happy is to give our lives away. We know this because of the Cross. Thus, let us continue to ask the Lord “how are you calling me to surrender my life to You?” and respond courageously to the promptings of the Holy Spirit to lay down our lives each day.

“Life grows by being given away, and it weakens in isolation and comfort. Indeed, those who enjoy life most are those who leave security on the shore and become excited by the mission of communicating life to others.” –Pope Francis

 

Prayer of Surrender and Generosity

Years ago when I was in despair, a sister in Christ, Catherine Quinto (now a nun), sent me two prayers that became very dear to me, even to this day.  I hope these prayers help you as much as they have helped me.

Both are by St. Ignatius of Loyola.

Prayer of Surrender

Take, O Lord, and receive my entire liberty, my memory, my understanding and my whole will. All that I am and all that I possess You have given me: I surrender it all to You to be disposed of according to Your will. Give me only Your love and Your grace; with these I will be rich enough, and will desire nothing more.

Prayer of Generosity

Lord, teach me to be generous. Teach me to serve you as you deserve; to give and not to count the cost, to fight and not to heed the wounds, to toil and not to seek for rest, to labor and not to ask for reward, save that of knowing that I do your will.

Amen.