Thankfulness for joy giving, rather than joy getting.
We often need to be reminded for the greater effort invested in giving because our natural inclination is to think about what we “get”.
“What is in it for us?” Â we tend to think.
It takes time and training to be generous and magnanimous. It stretches us to give, especially in the way that Jesus taught us.
What are the Benefits of Giving?
- Scientists believe that altruistic behavior releases endorphins in the brain
- Giving is shown to have health benefits
Make it a Practice
Christmas season is a most appropriate time to start a habit of generosity. It seems like the music, the moods, and the merriment creates a desire to share joy and contribute to other’s happiness.
After all, we
- give more to charity
- shop for special gifts to give to friends and relatives
- go out of our way to be more considerate
Too often, money is the main currency of our giving. It is much appreciated, sure, but widen your view of ways to be more giving. In patience, kindness, in giving smiles, being more polite, doing small favors without complaint. giving more affirmations and expressing grateful thanks… making or baking something to give away, lending a helping hand, there are many ways we can weave such generous efforts into our life.
The Benefits
Besides the obvious benefits to the one on the receiving end, there is a surprise one for the giver.
Joy! It may not be every time, or it may be slow to show itself, but an inner sense of elation can arise from the act doing something generous and kind for another. Back to science, they have actually given it a name, “helper’s high”. That’s because of those endorphins in the brain released as a result of altruistic behavior, producing the positive feelings.
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Prayer
Dear Father God,
I am thankful you have provided ways for me to share in your joy of giving. I thank you for the greatest gift, of your Son, this Christmas season. My response is to want to celebrate and help others to have joy, also. Inspire my mind with ways that I can grow in generosity and kindness. Help me to make a baby step today.
Thank you for your provision that enables me to give something of myself to another.
In Jesus’ holy name, amen.
Carol
We Three Kings
Today begin your practice of giving, in however small a way.
