A Different Sort Of Generosity

The generosity we encounter along our journey continues to astonish me.

Authentic generosity is risky. Others might take advantage. Your efforts might be misunderstood or unappreciated or ridiculed. I’m humbled when someone courageously demonstrates no-strings-attached generosity.

Generosity comes in many forms. Money, time, attention—people share in many different ways. The leaders who allowed us to share our story were generous with access.

We’ll head home Sunday after our final two speaking events at Alsbury Baptist Church in Burleson, Texas, a suburb of Dallas/Fort Worth. The calendar for FLORIDA HOPE TOUR 2013 will show 29 meetings with groups ranging in size from six to over a thousand.

Almost all of those events were arranged by leaders who took a big leap of faith when they invited us. A few knew us or relied on personal recommendations, but mostly they trusted us.

When you’re in charge of a group, access is a big deal. Some leaders squander it by granting it with no filter. Some accumulate and hoard access because it makes them feel powerful.

Wise leaders grant access intentionally to those who advance their core message and purpose. And somehow they know when to step out on a limb.

I believe God touches hearts and opens doors, but I also know it’s easy to dismiss His invitation. We all do it. It’s safer to just do same-old-same-old and avoid the risk of the unfamiliar.

I appreciate the folks who took a chance on us. Some even arranged big events, invited community and partner groups, and included local media coverage. But whether it was a special event or part of a regularly-scheduled meeting, each opportunity felt unique and extraordinary.

We thank those who took the risk, who offered us the opportunity to talk about dreams, hope, and courage. They’re central characters in this chapter of RICH’S RIDE.

They also taught me a valuable lesson. I want to be more generous.

You?

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