Generosity is paradoxical. It goes against the grain of what we assume we can only gain by keeping close at hand. Notre Dame conducted a study called, The Science of Generosity, a nationally representative survey of Americans’ practices and beliefs about generosity with hundreds of interviews around the country on generosity. Here are the results: First, the more generous Americans are, there was more happiness, health, and purpose in life they enjoy. Second, the correlation between these things is sufficient to believe generous practices cause enhanced personal well-being.
Generosity is like love in this way. One of the best ways to be truly generous is simply to start behaving this way. New beliefs and insights are frequently provoked by doing and we perfect our new habits by practicing them.
On the flip side, one can be miserly. The word “miser” is etymologically related to the word, “miserable.” No one wants to be miserable, but that’s the result by holding the gifts of life back.
Happy, healthy generosity … Joy! See you Sunday as we think deeply about generosity!
Pastor Keith Herron
