The season of giving is about to begin with the season of buying this Friday. I have no doubt that shopping malls will be a mad house. While our neighbours to the south are being grateful for all that they have received, they are also realizing they do not yet have enough so off they go shopping for more stuff. Truly, this season can be a drain on sanity and finances if we let it.

Long ago I stopped buying gifts for many people and those that I do buy, I choose carefully and usually shop locally. I know that not everyone is on board with this train of thought and that is ok. Today though as I read the gospel about the poor widow who put into the treasury everything she had, I wondered when the last time was I gave my all. I did have a couple of memories of giving greatly….of giving and not counting the cost as St. Ignatius says. His famous prayer for a generous heart is well known. What if we were to serve God as God deserves? We cannot out give the Great Giver. He gave us life, breath, redemption, hope, joy, and so much more. What can we possibly give in return? This poor widow gave her all. Can you?

Peace,

Suzanne