Three Acts of Generosity

Experiencing the acts of generosity can lead to growing in your faith. I have experienced several instances of generosity on weekend trips and when visiting family and friends. Generosity, as noted in Acts 4:32-35; Hebrews 13:2; Leviticus 19:34; 1 Peter 4:9, and Romans 12:13 (NKJV), emphasizes the importance of treating others with hospitality and care. Much storytelling is told in the book of Acts, written by Luke the physician, which includes the Acts of the Apostles and the Great Commission (Jackson, 2021; Turner, 2025). The Bible Study Project (2025) offers a similar guide to understand the Book of Acts on related topics. When I reflect on those passages and acts of generosity I experienced. Three stories come to mind, situated in a senior facility in Upstate New York, where my Mom presently resides.

The FIRST ACT of generosity happened on a Saturday afternoon when I walked into my Mom’s and Anne’s room at the senior facility. They welcomed us with big smiles and were eager to share their comforts and discomforts. Mom was getting her hair done by my sister-in-law, who had flown in the night before with her husband to celebrate his birthday. Both had visited the local Walmart to purchase the supplies needed to perfect the style chosen. After the applications, Mom’s salted hair rose to the occasion. The pepper had given way to all salt some time ago, and we were ecstatic to witness such a transformation in her hair. I observed a profound expression of love and service, as evident in Galatians 5:13 and John 13:34-35 (NKJV), by the stylist. Anne expressed her sentiments and admired Mom’s hair, as well as her wonderful family.

The SECOND ACT of generosity happened that same afternoon when Anne and my brother were watching a football game. Anne spoke of her daughter and the love she had for football. She likes some as well, and I, too. I was astonished to learn about her connection to sports. Anne was having some “Outshine Fruit Bars” and decided to share them with us. Previously, she had purchased extras using her pad, which were then placed in the freezer at the facility. She asked the attendant to get more, and upon arrival, she inquired about our preferences. I chose the strawberry bar. It’s a wonder how meals, refreshments, and snacks can bring people together. Jesus Christ also centered many teachings around the same, including at events to do the impossible (John 2:1-12 ESV).

The THIRD ACT of generosity occurred several times when making impromptu visits to see my Mom. Often, she offers whatever meal is in front of her or asks for my opinion on some preparations. For example, it was a Friday, and I had come up; she wanted me to try a piece of her baked fish. Much was left on the plate after she worked through the selection process of the fish, potatoes, and green beans. To my dismay, and after a few nudges, I tried the baked fish. Gladly, the tip of a fork was worth it, and I concluded it was well-seasoned. The mantra of having a desire for seasoned fried fish does not always coincide with her taste palate there. From the three acts of generosity, I’ve learned that although Mom and Anne are challenged by their health and well-being, they have nonetheless found ways to give and share with others (Mark 12:41-44 NIV). We can do the same to grow in our faith.

Read and reflect on your stories:

References

Jackson, J. (2021). The God who acts: Luke’s presentation of God. Journal of the Evangelical Theological Society, 64(1), 95-107.

Lamont-Turner, A. J. (2025). Bible Study Guide: Acts Volume 1: Verse-by-verse Study of the Bible Book of Acts Chapters 1 to 8. Andrew J. Lamont-Turner.

The Bible Study Project. Book of Acts ( 2025, October 17). https://bibleproject.com/guides/book-of-acts/

Submitted by,

Dr. Philomena M. Johnson