We are all faced with the challenge of constantly fine-tuning our spiritual practices to keep them inspiring, fun and joyful. Here is a note from a fellow tither that has realized how to keep the spirit of joy in tithing:
Several years ago I began to pray sincerely about the issue of tithing. This solution came to me: For me to give a tenth of my income would mean I could not meet my basic bills; so I began with a percentage I could sensibly manage.
Every year I joyfully increase the percentage by a sustainable increment. My “Day of Increase” has become a special occasion in which I celebrate with Divine Mother. I offer flowers, sing, and give thanks to Her strength and the wisdom of making small, sustainable steps. – Blessings to you, B.P.
Expand your heart by seeking God’s presence in everyone during this Christmas season. Tithing will help expand your heart and help you to feel Christ’s living presence within.
If tithing is not yet a regular spiritual practice for you, experiment with it by giving a percentage you feel comfortable with. Try to feel how much gratitude you have in your heart for all that God has brought you. Give with that intense feeling of gratitude. Listen to your inner guidance. Do you feel more joy? It might take some time, just like learning to meditate. Keep trying. It’s worth the effort. Experience the joy of tithing.
On the Christmas tree of Christ Consciousness hang your material desires to remain forever. Give unto Christ all your gifts of love and devotion. Let Him, on the Christmas morn of your spiritual awakening, unwrap the gorgeous present of your heart offerings that have been sealed with the tears of your golden joy and bound with the cord of your eternal fidelity to Him.
He accepts only the gifts of sacred soul-dreams, and His acceptance will be His greatest gift to you; for if He gives anything to anyone, He gives nothing less than Himself. In giving Himself He will make your heart big enough to hold Him; then your heart will throb with Christ in everything.
– Paramhansa Yogananda, Metaphysical Meditations, 1932 ed.
