This is the week we are supposed to feel gratitude, and many Americans ask why. As the richest nation in the world we balk at sharing our wealth with others. Although we have given a great deal in what is called foreign aid, compared to some other nations, per capita, we spend less than .2% of our gross national income (GNI).
Countries such as Luxemburg, Norway, Sweden, and Denmark are the most generous per capita, almost all of it for development projects in third world countries. Some years ago the World Council of Churches set a commitment goal of .7%, which some nations exceed. And now countries facing environmental disaster are asking for more.
COP29 came up with a $300 billion target agreement, and although obviously not mandatory, it would reduce the outmigration from many countries, including some in our own hemisphere. People don’t leave their own homes unless they are driven from them. Making a serious commitment to a livable planet would make a real difference.
Prayer for the Day
You have created us, O gracious God, in your image,
The image of love and concern for the world around us;
You have endowed us, O Source of being, with soul and mind,
The soul and mind to consider all that is around us in our world;
Energize us, as we continue on our journey to answer your call
By serving the many who need our help and assistance,
In the name of the One who reached out to those in need,
Even Christ Jesus our Lord, Amen.
Thoughts for the Day
True generosity is an offering, given freely ad out of pure love. No strings attached. No expectations.
Suze Orman, writer
The gospel alone liberates you to live a life of scandalous generosity, unrestrained sacrifice, uncommon valor, and unbounded courage.
Tullian Tchividjan, pastor and writer
The point is this: the one who sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and the one who sows bountifully will also reap bountifully. Each of you must give as you have made up your mind, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to provide you with every blessing in abundance, so that by always having enough of everything, you may share abundantly in good work.
Paul in the Second Letter to the Corinthians 9: 6-8