Wow!
From Black Friday to Cyber Monday and now Giving Tuesday, there is more than opportunity to shop till we drop. No question about it though, much of the world has become a consumer market-driven culture. And this season tops the list for encouraging this mentality. Let us be mindful that this is not Jesus’s birthday, and even then, the gifts are not for Christ.
Today’s Holy Nougatâ„¢ is a worthwhile treat…
every man shall give as he is able, according to the blessing of Jehovah thy God which he hath given thee. Deuteronomy 16:17 ASV
One of the ironies of consumerism is that it locates the focus on self and not on neighborliness, and God scarcely gets a word in.
As Christians, as children of God, we MUST operate from a God-centered perspective at all times. Especially in our giving. Giving as we are able does not mean offering to God and others, eventually (quickly realising that we ain’t able).
Perhaps if we recognised that it is Jehovah God (YHWH) is the true source, then giving could become a natural aspect of our being. Ironically, it is often those whose economic circumstances are limited that are able to give abundantly to God. And further, if we claim the mind of Christ, we’d find that Giving is second-nature. Even without acknowledgement of our giving.
So then, whom do we gift? It would be helpful to serve God with tithes and offerings in our spaces of worship. But we also seek to bless others as we have been blessed, and as the Lord leads us. I could share countless testimonies of persons I know who’ve opted to give as they are able and find that it results in the multiplier effect. But that’s another meal.
For now, let’s give to others as an act of love for God, as we are able, without strings.
Thanks for joining me in reflections today. May God’s blessings be yours.
In Christ’s love and grace . . .
