Throughout the past several years, you have heard that you should “trust the science.”  You might recall that 2018 a young Swedish student splashed on the scene calling for climate strikes.  Her name was Greta Thunberg.  Although she was not an expert in the field of climate science, the United Nations research and reports naming climate change as an existential threat to humanity convinced her to be a voice for change.  With many scientist in the background, she became the young, public voice quickly trusted by many as a legitimate advocate for this issue.

You might also recall that during the worldwide corona-virus pandemic you were told to trust the science.  Proper masking would help curb the spread.  Proper social distancing would have a significant impact on lessening the number of cases.   When the vaccine becomes available. getting the shot would keep you from getting COVID-19 later amended to state that the shot would lessen the effects when you did catch it.

A large number of folks have adopted these positions and others based upon the testimony of science.  Because of this, I am curious about the reasons that we are skeptical of science in other areas (or at least our practice or lack of practice gives this impression.)

I was not aware of this, but in recent years, Notre Dame University has been doing research on the science of generosity.  Led by Professor Christian Smith, a sociologist, the university is discovering the power generosity has on the brain and outlook on life.  According to their research, when we give of our time, talent, and treasure in service to others, the brain releases serotonin, dopamine, oxytocin, and endorphins.  In other words, hosts of chemicals that make us feel happy, feel joy.  An additional effect is the mitigation of fear and scarcity; powerful motivators that can prevent generosity and thus joy.

The Apostle Paul probably did not understand this from a scientific point of view.  His source was experience as he watched the power of generosity in action curate joy.  Intent upon supporting the church in Jerusalem, Paul encouraged faith communities around the Mediterranean to give special gifts to his ministry partners who would later carry them to Jerusalem.  He used one group’s gift to entice another group into matching or even beating it.  It might have been healthy competition; it might have been some manipulation; it might have been reverse psychology.  The end results was still the same – Paul wanted followers of Jesus to give their gifts freely knowing they were an investment in God’s church and thus God’s kingdom vision.  Knowing this and responding, they would experience joy.  

I invite you to take time and read each of the scriptures above followed by reflection on the questions below.  Consider the impact extravagant generosity has on you and your outlook on the world.  Lastly, I pray that God bless the reading of God’s Word and the meditations of your heart.