Our Life Together

Sharing…

“Sharing with others is the way to real joy.”

Another excellent snippet from the book Rich Christians in an Age of Hunger.

This is an apropos quote in light of the Haitian earthquake. In the days and now weeks since the earthquake, individuals, churches, non-profits, charities, and governments around the world have shared their resources and wealth with the Haitians. The dire need of this nation for help was seen and heard on televisions and radios, and people responded. Responding to those in need recovers part of who we are meant to be: loving neighbors.

Yet there are times beyond the tragic global emergencies of earthquakes, floods, famines and the like when sharing and meeting needs is still called for and important. We face this calling to be loving neighbors in ordinary life, with ordinary people, people who are closer than an ocean away.

The quote, “sharing with others is the way to real joy,” is a great quote in light of community and what it speaks about meaningful community. There are many ways that community can be meaningful, but this quote touches on just one: sharing. It is through the sharing of a home that others can feel welcome, and therefore loved. It is through the sharing of finances that another can be blessed or relieved of a financial burden, and thereby be more free. It is through the sharing of our minds and thoughts that one another can learn, be challenged, and grow. It is through the sharing of kind words that we can bring encouragement, and lift the spirit of another. It is through the sharing of hearts and lives that we come to know one another deeply, and can help each other through listening and compassion.

Sharing opens us up to freedom, relief, love, growth, encouragement, compassion, among other intangible benefits. This is why sharing is the path to real joy. Real joy has eternal significance; it is not a fleeting feeling or a fading reality. Real joy is the proof of Kingdom realities invading earth, the proof that Jesus is alive and well in our hearts and lives. Joy, then, is found in selflessness, sacrifice, generosity, and love… qualities of being and action that define Jesus and his life’s work.

Furthermore, joy begets joy. It is a joy to be a bearer of joy to another. Joy is a two-way street; sharing brings joy to both giver and receiver. May we uplift our communities, our friends, and ourselves by bringing joy through generous, intentional, continual sharing that reflects our Savior.