Are you envious because I am generous? The question haunts me. One of my least favorite parables in scripture recently came up in the lectionary rotation. And it is revealing to even say that much, for as soon as you scan the text with my resistance in mind, it becomes obvious where I assume I fit.
I have the same problem with the parable of the Prodigal Son (though that familiar title may not be the most helpful). As the firstborn in my family of origin (and one who fits all the stereotypes), I imagine myself as the older brother. Responsible. Reliable. Rageful.
Are you envious because I am generous? I cannot get away from the question of the parable. And after much reflection, I wonder if the crux of my struggle comes back to expectation. The workers in the vineyard who were hired at the start of day had an understanding with the owner. And it all unfolded as agreed. Yet, by the end they were ultimately dissatisfied. What changed?
While parables are intentionally layered, it could be that they are to teach us more about God rather than stories for us to find ourselves in. Perhaps our cultural predilection towards individualism and self-actualization causes us to miss something significant.
Are you envious because I am generous? Why would I be resentful of someone’s generosity? And if I play out the implications to their logical conclusion, do I really prefer fairness over justice? Over generosity?
When I am consumed with fairness, when envy is speaking loudly, my posture and mindset is that of scarcity: there is not enough; I do not have enough; I am not enough. What would it take to unclench my fists? How could I move to a way of being in the world that honors the way of abundance?
There seems to be a link between the practice of gratitude and the practice of generosity. Perhaps it is the required mindset. Perhaps like a Venn diagram these postures intersect one inspiring and impacting the other.
As you reflect on the interplay between generosity and gratitude, consider these questions:
For what are you grateful?
What are you longing for?
Where are you experiencing abundance?
In what part of your life could you be more generous?
A Blessing for Thanksgiving
When you are weary of the arid wasteland
and tired of manna
May you give thanks
When you have eaten your fill
and all that you have is multiplied
May you give thanks
When you rest in the place of flowing streams and fertile ground
and you eat without scarcity, lacking for nothing
May you give thanks
When you are humbled and tested
and brought down from your delusions of self-sufficiency
May you give thanks
And may your gratitude look like
sowing bountifully,
giving cheerfully,
and sharing abundantly
for the sake of the kingdom.
Beautiful reflection and reminder of the power of gratitude. Thank you!