Humorous Wisdom of Unseen Generosity

As I was getting ready for work this morning I found myself hurriedly looking for socks in a clean load of laundry atop my dryer.

It was a load of dark towels and some other miscellaneous items and pawing through the pile I found one sock and stuck it in my left hand which was leaning on the dryer. I continued searching with my right hand.

Amongst the tumble of fabric, the distinct stitching on the toe of my socks caught my eye, and with a triumphant gesture, I reached for what I thought to be its matching counterpart. Unbeknownst to me, the toe I glimpsed belonged to the very sock already in my possession. With a swift tug, my right hand unwittingly liberated the sock from my left.

I giggled out loud and immediately thought of the text from Matthew “…do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing,” (and that thought made me giggle even harder.)

Oh, the humor in that moment! I love an unexpected chuckle. It added an amusing twist to my morning routine.

As I think about that comical moment this morning, it strikes me how often life presents me with unexpected parallels with various Bible scriptures and stories.

That text in Matthew is from chapter 6 verse 3 and it speaks to a deeper humility in acts of kindness. It talks of a quality of sincerity and discreetness that should be present when we give to others. Do you know the story? Let’s take a look.

Jesus said, “Beware of practicing your righteousness before other people in order to be seen by them, for then you will have no reward from your Father who is in heaven.” Matthew 6:1 ESV

I think we all know or have known people like this. They are more concerned about how they look on the outside; and they want to look good.

Verse 2 goes on to say,

“Thus, when you give to the needy, sound no trumpet before you, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, that they may be praised by others. Truly, I say to you, they have received their reward. But when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, so that your giving may be in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will reward you.” Matthew 6:2-4 ESV

Jesus was emphasizing the importance of sincerity and humility in acts of kindness and charity. He was saying, when giving to those in need, it's crucial to do so without seeking attention or recognition. God sees you and that should be enough.

The analogy of not letting your left hand know what your right hand doing emphasizes the idea of doing good deeds discreetly, without boasting or making a show of it.

Jesus suggests that true generosity comes from a genuine desire to help others without expecting praise or recognition from others. The ultimate reward comes from God.

"Then Jesus said to his host, 'When you give a luncheon or dinner, do not invite your friends, your brothers or sisters, your relatives, or your rich neighbors; if you do, they may invite you back and so you will be repaid. But when you give a banquet, invite the poor, the crippled, the lame, the blind, and you will be blessed. Although they cannot repay you, you will be repaid at the resurrection of the righteous.'" Luke 14:12-14 NIV

Genuine, selfless giving without seeking attention or repayment from others; that is what God wants from us. Besides, it feels good to do good!

by Jeanette Stark – Monday, November 20, 2023