By Ken McClain of Independence, Missouri USA
You will be enriched in every way for your great generosity, which will produce thanksgiving to God through us.
[Adapted from Witness the Word DGR series]
“Extravagant generosity” is an expression that has gained some currency in the church. I feel like it is a difficult concept to grasp. One of my favorite sayings of Jesus goes like this: “Observe the lilies of the field, they neither spin nor sew; but Soloman in all his glory was not dressed better. Observe the ravens of the air, how they neither plant nor store in barns; but God feeds them. If God takes care of the flowers of the field and the birds of the air won't he take care of you.”
My eight-year-old grandson Graham bore an incredible testimony about generosity at our church service last Sunday. His mother, my daughter Chelsea, took him for an afternoon at a local miniature golf course. They had decided in advance that the adjacent arcade would be saved for another day.
Graham had a great time and even won a free game by making a hole in one on the 19th hole. So having such good luck, he asked his mother if he couldn’t just briefly visit the arcade. She relented and gave him the two quarters which allowed him to buy two tokens.
But his luck continued as he walked into the arcade—he found another token on the ground. So with his three tokens he played three games and won 15 tickets. He went to the prize booth to trade his tickets for toys. He decided that he only wanted one toy that cost five tickets. So, he had 10 tickets left.
Rather than give the tickets to his mother to hold for another day, Graham walked over to another arcade participant and offered his 10 extra tickets to him. The lucky arcade visitor was naturally excited by this act of generosity. So was Graham. But the story is not over.
The arcade toy booth attendant was so stunned by Graham's generosity; he called him back over to the booth and gave him a toy that cost 150 tickets! Talk about having your best day. Graham viewed his great luck as a direct confirmation that God will take care of our needs when we are responsive to the call to share our surplus with those in need.
Most of us are afraid to share extravagantly because we might need it ourselves. My testimony is that if we will do our part, God will do his. May God bless us as we consider our ability to share with others.
Prayer Phrase
“…do good and share what you have” (Hebrews 13:16).
Enough and to Spare
Take three slow, deep breaths. As you inhale, silently say, “There is enough.” As you exhale, say, “And more to share.” Then name aloud or write down three ways you already experience God’s generosity in your life—big or small. End by asking, “How can I share from what I’ve been given 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.