Moreover, as you Philippians know, in the early days of your acquaintance with the gospel, when I set out from Macedonia, not one church shared with me in the matter of giving and receiving, except you only; for even when I was in Thessalonica, you sent me aid more than once when I was in need. Philippians 4:15-16
“Generosity is God’s plan for sustainability…the primary economic unit is the household, or three-generational family. This recognizes that at least two generations in a family–children and the elderly–may not be productive. The productive generation must therefore work and meet the needs of those who are unable…The Apostle Paul writing to the Philippians (4:15) talks of “giving and receiving.” When generosity is viewed as more than money, there is a healthy exchange of resources that includes prayer, time (giving ourselves), hospitality, material things such as food, and of course, money…Giving has always been God’s way of sustaining His mission. We are members of one body and we need each other.”
Dennis Tongoi in “Living Generously in an African Culture” in Christ-Centered Generosity: Global Perspectives on the Biblical Call to a Generous Life (Colbert: GGN & KLP) 72.
Today I am tying flies at the West Denver Trout Unlimited Fly Tying Clinic with my son, Sammy, representing, Sammy’s Fly Shop. While preparing for the show last night, Jenni and I learned from Sammy and three fellow Christ-followers plan to live off campus next year and may get their apartment this Summer. Our son has both the maturity to launch and the economic means. Our role was to teach him how to work and live generously.
Why mention this? Enter into the irony with me. I had read Tongoi’s article on my flight home yesterday, and was thinking what a privilege it has been (and continues to be) to help Sammy and Sophie grow to be productive Christ-followers. The night before I had spent time with my brother on the north end of Chicago. Over dinner we talked about how much we love our parents and what it might look like to help care for them as they get older.
God’s design is for the productive members of households (with parents above us and children below us) to care for their parents while teaching their children how to live, give, serve, and love. As members of the body of Christ, we also get to show the same love, concern, and support for brothers and sisters in the larger family of God. This is God’s design for sustainability. Sometimes we get to give and other times receive.
God’s plan is NOT for the productive generation to stockpile for themselves. That’s what the world teaches and many Christians follow suit. Why not do it? Those that do effectively teach their children selfishness. Your kids will selfishly stockpile following your example. Furthermore, many aging parents have said to their kids, “I don’t want my kids to have to take care of me.” God’s design is that we care for each other in giving and receiving.