The Healing Power of Generosity

2 Corinthians 9 could be quoted in full as a statement of our experience over the past few days. Our hearts are full beyond measure. "...God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work.... for the rendering of this generosity not only supplies the needs of the saints but also overflows with many thanksgivings to God...."

Vocations in Generosity

Our entire professional lives have been made possible by others' generosity. We've been camp counselors and program directors at Christian camps; pastors in Covenant and Reformed congregations; and employees of a seminary and universities. All of these roles belong to non-profit systems. These organizations, and the salaries of those who serve within them, rely on the generosity of others. We feel fortunate to have our lives embedded in such organizations. The work is fulfilling as "return on mission" is more important than ROI. 

As pastors, we loved seeing the generosity of people in time, treasure, and talent. The same is true as a professor and a college chaplain at two Southern universities.

As leaders and professionals, however, we've long felt more comfortable connecting people's generosity (financial and time resources) with organizations (mission and programming) rather than with our personal lives. We enjoy finding ways for relationships to form through connecting the needs of an organization with the gifts and passions of people . We love to hear stories from donors and leaders about these connections and the impact. This is a wonderful part of our vocations and professions.

Now we are leaning into and learning from the power of generosity in our personal lives. 

Living By Generosity

This is not the first time we've been recipients of generosity, but the last few days have been overwhelming for us. The words of encouragement for Madeline warm our hearts. The offers to help calm our anxieties. Thank you in advance for the meals, rides, and assistance. Thank you to our parents who have made plans to split the trip to care for Micah and Maggie in SC while we are away.

Additionally, the gofundme, which was a monumental feat to implement has been another sign of joy. We have midwestern pride in asking for help, especially financial help. During the first set of Madeline's surgeries people recommended we begin asking, and we were reluctant. Yet we have had a few friends who have gently questioned our pride and encouraged us to do what we have delightfully done for others. They were, and are, right in their encouragement.

Their words became all the more important because of Madeline. We have tried, as parents, to keep money out of our discussions with her, but she is a tenacious observer and listener (unless we are asking her to unload the dishwasher or walk the dog. #teenagers). She sees the envelopes coming in the mail; she listens as we talk to the insurance company; and she overhears us having the normal marital discussions. She's made a few subtle comments during the last few weeks about the expense of Utah and the surgery. She asked, "Why don't we do what that guy from Disney recommended - it will help." We couldn't hold her wise questions and advice without our own feelings getting in the way. So we started the gofundme...; the next day she said, "Thank you." I cannot help but hear Philippians, "let your requests be made known to God..."

The Lineage of Generosity

On Thursday evening and Friday morning I decided to check the webpage and could barely hold back my tears. The amount of money is one element of overwhelm, but the names of those who gave are equally significant. Reading the names feels a bit like revisiting the genealogy of Jesus in Matthew 1. The names are a history of our lives: close friends from several states and countries; friends and teachers from high school; college friends; parishioners; colleagues; former students; mentors; and complete strangers. Madeline noticed names of her own teachers, friends, and others who are offering words and gifts. Each name is a story of hope and connection.

Madeline reads through the names and asks us for the stories of how we know them. This has been a rich time as we recollect our lives and remember the love we received from each person listed.  

In the end, thank you. Thank you.

The Healing Power of Generosity

Madeline is seemingly more relaxed about the financial aspects of the surgery. This is giving her space to share openly about her fears and anxieties for the upcoming procedures. I know the joy of a school or congregation receiving the necessary resources for its mission. However, seeing the freedom in Madeline's body is all the more rewarding. The money and the comments fill our souls with gratitude. I believe the generosity is already creating energy for healing and recovery in her body. Thank you.

Rejoice in the Lord always; again I say rejoice..... Do not worry about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. 

We are beginning to understand this verse within the depths of our bones. Thank you for the contribution to our faith and hope. Thank you. Thank you.