2Cor 9,6-10/Psa 112.1-2.5-6.7-8.9/John 12,24-26.
Reflection by Most Rev. Emmanuel Kofi Fianu, SVD (Catholic Bishop of Ho, Ghana))
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The First Reading forms part of Paul’s appeal to the Corinthians to contribute generously to the collection for the community of Jerusalem.
In this section of the appeal, Paul exhibits his ability to call on the conscience and generosity of the individual in order to lead the person to action.
The principle he applies is very convincing as it puts to the fore the two aspects of human action.
In everything we do, there is the need for an input in view of an output.
The amount of effort we put into an activity has an impact on the results we obtain from it.
If a student puts a lot of time and energy into his studies, he stands a greater chance of attaining success in his/her exams.
If we pray unceasingly, we stand the chance of obtaining a response from God.
If a farmer sows well, he can be certain of a good harvest, all things being equal.
Paul points out that a similar principle applies to human charity or generosity.
The more we give, the more we will receive in return.
While there is a lot of truth in what Paul says, it is unfortunate that this principle is misused in certain circumstances.
Some ministers of the word and some Christian communities in their search for money misquote Paul to support their appeals for funds.
In some Christian communities, people are pressured into giving for the activities and projects of the community using these words of Paul.
In some cases, the pressure also leads to the manipulation of the people to the extent that they give out of fear or as if they are bargaining with God.
We hear statements like;
“the amount you offer is the measure with which God will bless you”.
In other words, the more you give to God, the more blessings you will receive.
This attitude turns divine blessings into a merchandise to be sold to the highest bidder.
The emphasis in soliciting donations should not be on the amount given but on the cheerfulness with which it is given.
The consciousness that Paul wants to create in us is about the purpose of God’s gifts to humanity.
He gives to us so that in our turn, we may share with those who are in need.
When other people receive generously from us they will also be able to say that God has provided for their needs.
It is through us that God provides for his children.
Lawrence understood this calling and readily served the Church of Rome by sharing the wealth of the Church among the poor of Rome instead of handing them over to the Emperor.
He knew that he could not give the wealth of the Church to the Emperor since it was the property of the poor.
We pray that through his intercession we may also become good custodians of what God has entrusted to us for the welfare of humanity. Amen.
