As we have once more come to the time of Harvest, we have been reminded of the need for giving, and I’m sure we all give something in some way all year round. But what is the feeling about our giving?
No doubt we all give time and money to our families which is necessary, and many give to charities, the church, and some occasional ‘good causes’. It’s nice to be able to give something where it is needed, but is your heart in it? Are you giving for the right reasons and because you want to? Or is it because you feel ‘obliged to’ or because there may be some reward forthcoming? If you play the Health Lottery is it because you want to help the NHS more than you do through taxes? Or because you may need their help at some time? Or because you want to win some money? Do you give money to a political party hoping for some business reward or because it is expected through a union membership?
God tells us to give with a good heart and for no other reason than the pleasure of giving – and being able to do so. And don’t feel guilty if you can’t afford much, remember the widow’s mite. Your offering will never save the world, nor all the starving children, nor the endangered animals, nor even your local church if the situation isn’t right anyway. So enjoy yourself and don’t go looking for any reward, it’s the smile you may never see - on the face of someone who benefits from your gift.
Lord, thank you for putting us in the position of being able to give something to help others less fortunate or needing assistance, and help us to send a smile with our gift to lift someone’s heart. Amen.
Jim Finch
No comments:
Post a Comment