In Potawatomi culture, an understanding of being “Rooted in Abundance” comes from the notion that, through the gift of creation, the Creator provides enough for all of nature to thrive. In the Creator’s abundance there is enough, though not necessarily extra, for everyone. When we are caretakers of the garden of creation as the Creator intended, all creatures live in harmony and abundance.

Through the gift of creation, I am rooted in the generosity of God and my life is found in the rich soil of gratitude and generosity. Natural theology sees Father Sky as bringing forth fruit from Mother Earth. Christianity, in the same way, sees God the Father bringing forth Jesus, the Incarnate One, from his human mother. The Word of God made flesh, Jesus the Son, came that we might have life and have it abundantly. In the spiritual practice of Lectio Divina, a slow and deliberate meditation on the word, I am rooted in the living and abundant and incarnate Word of God. From those roots, I am able to draw the Creator’s own nutrients into my life. This enables me to grow in a life of gratitude and to bring forth the fruit of generosity. God blesses me to be a blessing for others and I show my gratitude for my own life “Rooted in Abundance” chiefly by being generous because the Creator has provided enough for everyone.

Question for Reflection:

How does gratitude for your own life impact your generosity?