“Each one must do as he has made up his mind, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.” (2 Corinthians 9:7)
We will hear this verse in this Sunday’s Epistle lesson. It is from St. Paul, writing to the Christian community in Corinth when he was taking up a collection for the Church in Jerusalem. It is from those very early beginnings in the Church that the tradition of “passing a tray” during services has its roots. It has always been considered an essential part of the Divine Liturgy, and act of worship itself. It is as relevant today as it ever has been. As all is a blessing from God, we should be happy and willing to share where there is a need—a “cheerful giver” as St. Paul says. That is his point. Our giving is a matter of the heart. It makes us feel better about ourselves when we are not under compulsion or reluctant. And shall be a blessing unto us from God.
Obviously, St. Paul is speaking about financial giving – for the need in Jerusalem – but as every good Greek Orthodox Christian who is planning for a Festival knows, voluntary and cheerful giving goes beyond the scope of monetary giving. Working hard, dedicating time and talent for the Church is equally valuable, if not more so. Serving is another form of giving.
Serving, working for the good of the community and for the welfare of the Church should also be done cheerfully, not under compulsion or reluctantly. It too should be from the heart. So, as we work for the welfare of the Church, of St. Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church—let us do so with glad hearts and with a grateful spirit. Let us have fun despite the many hours of labor, despite what others are doing (or not doing), and despite the occasional disagreements and head-bumping that may occur.
This is a great and valuable lesson: “God LOVES a cheerful giver.” So, let’s do our best to be loved by God in the manner in which we serve and give.