They stood at the entrance to the pantry, One a first timer; the Other knew the ropes. Upon realising that One had no bags to collect the food being issued, the Other handed One a large shopping bag to ensure security of food collected. It was just enough for One. Have you ever had such an experience?
Here’s today’s Holy Nougatâ„¢
All must give as they are able, according to the blessings given to them by the Lord your God. Deuteronomy 16:17 NLT
Give as able
I’m there first to agree that Nothing from NOTHING leaves Nothing; but when we are at out lowest, there’s usually still something abounding somewhere for us to share with another. The Woman had less than enough meal to feed herself and son. She gave it ALL to the Lord and was rewarded bountifully. The (old) Woman threw two coins in the offering plate, conscious that she’d be the talk of the Town once again.
And they did talk. Jesus commended her sacrificial gift as the Best.
The little boy offered his ENTIRE lunch … it fed over 5000 persons. The little slave girl sent her terminally ill owner Naaman to Elisha for healing. We don’t know whether she even got her freedom, but that one gift of kindness transformed Naaman’s life.
The Man was unable to let go of his wealth, he could only give lip service to his Faith as he spoke to Jesus – he walked away broken and bitter without experiencing all God really had in store for him. Ananias and Sapphira withheld the returns on their investment, and pretended to give to God their all. It cost them their life. We cannot trick and rob God.
The saints of Old (and many today) risked persecution so that the message of the Gospel could be spread.
They all gave as they were able, selflessly; “… according to blessing received FROM the Lord”.
Can any of us enumerate EVERY SINGLE blessing we have received from God? No. Has our giving as we are able reflected thanks to our Loving, Giving Lord? Possibly. More likely not. Our time, talents AND our treasure have multiplicative potential when given unreservedly to the Lord!
May God’s blessings be Yours
In Christ’s love and grace . . .
