There is a challenging message about generosity in today’s reading from Luke’s gospel. We reflect on the connections between our wealth, our worries and our tendency to share. Also, please find resources for structuring your own Simple Quiet Day at the end of this post.
Thanks to Maurice van Bruggen, under Creative Commons.
Slowly, read the gospel according to Luke, Chapter 3 and verses 10 - 14.
Reflection
Many streets and neighbourhoods in Sheffield set up new groups at the start of the lockdown, keen to look out for each other during this pandemic.
At the begining, it was usually about the isolated getting access to food and medicine. In some cases, the purpose has grown … into conversation, information-swapping, keeping in touch. Some people with time on their hands have sorted through belongings and passed things on: families with older children passing on toys, games and clothes to the younger.
One resident who helps at the S2 foodbank takes in weekly food deliveries from her street. Another passes on to the Archer Project clothes and toiletries from his neighbours. Such things connect us and remind us our neighbours are not just those next door.
During this crisis, community generosity and acts of selfishness are visible. Most shops are now well-stocked but, after early weeks without toilet rolls, many of us still wonder whether we’ll find the shelves empty again. Shortages were, in the main, caused by people buying just one or two extra. Most of us can empathise: when things are in short supply, we feel anxious. It is normal to want to protect those we love, and ensure they get what they need.
“Whoever has two coats must share with anyone who has none; and whoever has food must do likewise”
At first glance, it seems logical that those who have more - who have two coats - would be more likely to give one away. But studies into charitable giving in the UK suggest that those who have less give away a larger proportion of their earnings than those who earn more.
Perhaps this is not surprising. Seeing the needs of those physically close to you enables you to empathise. You are more likely to see, understand, and respond.
Whatever situation we are in, it is hard to respond to need when anxious about our own needs.
A Prayer Exercise
Stand up, if you are able. Put your arms up in front of you, hands open, palms up. Remember - nothing separates us from God. We can stand here, open and honest. Stay for as long as you like and if anything feels ‘in the way’ of your connection to God, hand it over.
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Kneel down, if you are able. Put your hands together in the traditional prayer position. Bring to mind your own cares (worries) and your cares for others. Bring to mind those in need.
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Lie down, if you are able. Let your hands drop down, palms open. Rest in God’s care and provision. God provides for your needs and the needs of the world. You can let go of the burdens you are carrying.
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When you are ready and if you are able, slowly stand up. You are ready to move into the day before you. Listen for what God might be saying. Is there you are asked to do? To share? To give?
Some people are taking part in a virtual Simple Quiet Day at Whirlow today. Here are some of the resources they are using, should you wish to conduct your own day in your own time:
All virtual events at Whirlow are being delivered without cost to the participants. We are grateful for anything you feel able to donate or for other offers of help - find out how to Support Us here. Thank you.