Marketplace GenerositySample

The Reach of Generosity

When I was newly married in 2009, in the middle of moving into our new apartment, I met a man in the elevator who was at least 80 years old. When I introduced myself and told him my name he said, "Are you related to Mr. Augusto Sampedro?" and I told him that both my grandfather and my father bear that name.

Immediately his face changed, the elevator stopped on his floor, and he expressed the deep gratitude he had for my grandfather, who had been very helpful in his life in a difficult time he had.

He told me, "I am eternally grateful for what he did for me, and I am now here for whatever you and your family need." That day, there in my building, a harvest space was activated, from what my grandfather Augusto (who was a generous businessman) had planted many years ago.

Even though he has not been with us for many years, what he did at some point continues to bear fruit. I didn't do anything; it was my grandfather who opened that space of generosity that I could now benefit from that day on.

It is that normally, in basic terms, one reaps if one sows, reaps from what one sows, and normally reaps where one sows. Perhaps that is why my grandfather became a very prosperous businessman because he learned the cycle of generosity.

However, it is also important to add to the divine perspective that one may reap more than one sows, reap what others sow, and reap even out of season. God's promises are magnificent, and He has promised to bless our endeavors if we honor Him with our lives and are "cheerful givers."

For reflection: As a leader and in the marketplace, does your heart ache when you give? Then remember God's promises.

Dr. Jesús A. Sampedro