By Joann Condit of Phoenix, Arizona USA

For he is our peace; in his flesh he has made both groups into one and has broken down the dividing wall, that is, the hostility between us.

Years ago when Clay and I married, we joined a fundraiser to finish the church’s Auditorium in Independence. The church provided families with a small metal can—a bank—to collect stray coins or perhaps larger sums. When the bank was full, we sent the money to the Presiding Bishopric, earmarked for the work on the headquarters building.

Although just out of school and newly employed, we found we could manage to add to our little contribution regularly. Admittedly, our bank held mostly coins, but then…coins do add up. Our bank was gaining a respectable weight.

In those early years I often put money aside for some special need. Since we married only months before, there were many needs for our new household. One day I found a crisp, new five-dollar bill I had stashed in my wallet. It was a good sum in 1952. I knew it was there for something I must need, but I could not remember what it was.

I thought about this for several days without success. So one day I took the bill and folded it tightly to push through the slot in the top of the bank. The very moment it escaped my pinching fingers, I remembered! And yes, it was something I felt was important. I even tried to pluck it out with tweezers—a futile effort. My special savings would soon be on its way to putting carpeting or seats or lighting in the Auditorium.

Oddly enough, I never missed the item I had wanted so badly. This has remained true many times in the long journey of my life. When we give to God’s work, we are blessed by the giving. We never miss what we share to meet the needs of others. That’s a promise—you can bank on it!

Reflection Question

How has the practice of generosity enriched or added to your life?

Prayer Phrase

“You will be enriched in every way for your great generosity” (2 Corinthians 9:11).

The Open Hands Prayer

Sit with your hands resting on your lap, palms up. Close your eyes. Silently reflect: What have I been tightly holding on to? What is mine to give today? As you inhale, imagine receiving God’s abundant grace. As you exhale, open your hands more fully and say: “Freely I have received, freely I give.” End by asking God to show you one person, act, or place where you can respond with generosity today.

Today’s Prayer for Peace

Engage in a daily practice of praying for peace in our world. Click here to read today’s prayer and be part of this practice of peace.