May 13, 2007

It is easy to forget that generosity is the key to happiness and fulfillment.

When I was a postulant I was asked by a parish priest what quality is most needed to be a friar, and without thinking I simply answered “generosity.” That was seventeen years ago, and after having thought a lot about it, I simply say the same today.

Where there is generosity, there is freedom and joy and fruitfulness in every vocation.

Where does generosity come from? Of course it comes from the Lord, but it seems to come directly and indirectly, that is by grace and by nature. As the youngest of eleven children, plus seven step-brothers and sisters (yes, that’s 18 all together), I can say that my parents naturally taught us generosity and the fulfillment that comes from it. Parents have a great responsibility to be images of God’s generosity. It is contagious and perhaps one could say “spiritually genetic.” Today, on Mother’s Day, we can be especially grateful for how our mothers naturally revealed to us the Lord’s generosity.

Along with this, and even where it is lacking, is the direct action of grace, the true conviction and desire implanted within us that sets us free to love without counting the cost. Generosity is a fruit of the Holy Spirit, a grace that is mysteriously distributed. The martyrs show us how complete and supernatural it can be.

Then we must also bring our will into the picture. Each day the Lord gives us many opportunities to choose to move forward in freedom and generosity or to step back in fear and selfishness, like the rich young man in the Gospel (Mk 10:17-22). Like any virtue, generosity is made easier by making it a habit and by evaluating its effects.

There are always further questions in the healthy tension of whom to be generous with at a given moment; for example, with the Lord in prayer, with a relative or friend in need, or even with ourselves when necessary. But this fundamental truth that it is the key to fulfillment in this life is magnified by the saints in all of their splendid variety. “God is never outdone in generosity!” will be our eternal refrain with them in Heaven, because His generosity endures forever.

Fr. Richard Roemer, CFR

Most Blessed Sacrament Friary, Newark, NJ

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