Although the earliest documented use of the word gratis is in the year 1477, the practice of offering grace and kindness without cost has always existed, because it is part of the eternal nature of God.
In Scripture, God’s largesse is usually depicted in terms of the provision of food and water, such as during the Israelites’ 40 years in the desert and when Jesus multiplied the loaves and fishes. However, God’s sustenance extends beyond our physical needs, as we are invited to share God’s very life. When the songwriter Samuel Lover wrote, “Come, live in my heart and pay no rent,” he could have taken these words directly from the mouth of God.
As we spend more time with
God in prayer during Lent, we shouldn’t be surprised to find ourselves growing
in the desire to be kind to others and give to them freely. We tend to become
like those whose company we keep, so as we witness the generosity and mercy that
God extends to us and to others, our own heart expands when we see the needs of
others.
Our life comes to us gratis
from our loving Creator. Although payment is not required, we can nonetheless express
our gratitude by “paying it forward” through our own gratis acts of grace and
kindness toward others.
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