"Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver." – 2 Corinthians 9:7
Prayer and Feasting - Day 20
When my brother and I were real young we lived on a little ranch up in the Sierras. My dad worked in construction which meant long hours away from home and my mom had her hands full taking care of two little boys who seemed to live to play in the dirt. I mention this just to point out that we were a family of limited means. Whenever Christmas or birthdays would come around, my dad would give my brother and me a couple of dollars to buy presents. In those days to little kids that was big money. The next time we would go to town, we’d shop in the general store for just the right gifts.
Thinking back on it, I always got a bit of a laugh out of the idea that dad would give us money to buy him a gift. In reality it was much more than that. This was an opportunity to think about and care about someone other than ourselves, to let go of our money and have a good attitude about it. Another lesson is being able to participate, be it in Christmas or birthdays we were involved, part of it, could claim part ownership.
I think of this every time the offering plate is passed. God has given to me so I can think and care about others. As I do this, I let go and give back to Him. God has also given me the opportunity to participate with Him in His kingdom here on earth. Thank you dad/father.
Theme of Prayer - Worship
Prayer for Today - "Dear Lord, I ask that I would be one who adores You more than anything in all the world. I want to give back to You in worship. I want to give of my time, my talents, and my treasures - not to relieve guilt or feel good - but because of Who You are. I want to use everything I have to worship You. My life is a desire to worship You with who I am, what I do, what I say, and what my attitudes are. I pray that I would glorify You. In Jesus' name - Amen"