ADVENT CHALLENGE: BE MORE GIVING THAN RECEIVING

It’s Advent. I always remember a phrase that I hear from a priest one year and he would reiterate this phrase every given Advent, “Be more giving than receiving”.

I have always pondered this phrase as I figured out ways to put this phrase into action, whether it’s the Advent season or beyond.

Thankfully, it is not that complicated. Rather, it is easier said than done. Here are some tips to give more than receive.

Look through the closets. Too much in there? Start putting together clothes that are old and do not get worn frequently. Give them to homeless shelters or charities like St. Vincent De Paul. This can apply to acceptable appliances and electronics.

Tempted to buy that expensive latte, dinner, or lunch? Use the money you would spend to give to a beggar on the street, drop it in the offertory at Mass, or give to a Catholic organization.

Is there a giving tree at church? Take an item on the tree and purchase the item in need. It will go a long way.

Leftover food? Give it to a homeless person on the street.

The reason that it is better to give than to receive is a sign of humility and detachment. While we detach from the world, we attach ourselves to the next world.

Take that first step to give to those in need.