Experience the Joy of Giving

November 25, 2022

On Day Two of the 2022 Thanksgiving Program, Sant Rajinder Singh Ji Maharaj spoke of the importance of selfless service and developing an attitude of generosity and selflessness in our lives. To give is to share the gifts that God has given us so we can help others and bring joy to their lives. It is in giving that we receive, he said, pointing out the seemingly paradoxical nature of this truth if interpreted through the finite principles of the physical world. According to the spiritual principles, however, when we selflessly give of ourselves and our possessions, we receive the bounty of God’s love and the unimaginable riches that come in its wake. The saints and spiritual Masters exemplify this selflessness. Their lives are one continuous story of sacrifice and selfless giving, of serving God and God’s creation with all their love, heart, soul, and possessions. If we could but embody their example, we would each contribute to making this world a better place.

If we were to reflect deeply on our lives, we would recognize the immensity of God’s bounty in all the blessings that surround us. It is incumbent upon us to not only be grateful for what we have but also to share our gifts with those less fortunate so that we can bring joy and light to their lives. When we give joy, it boomerangs back to us and fulfills us in unexpected ways. It opens our hearts to not only love others but to receive God’s love. For this reason, selfless service and meditation are considered the pillars upon which we must build our path back to God.