I sought the Lord, and he answered me and delivered me from all my fears.

[Excerpted from “Why I Give” by Alice Nicholls, March 2016 Herald, pp. 27–28]

One Thanksgiving holiday, my maternal grandmother recounted a testimony I have not forgotten. During the Great Depression of the 1930s, the women in their RLDS congregation decided to provide a holiday meal for those who otherwise would have done without. As the ladies were about to open the doors, someone looked outside. She saw scores more than the women had anticipated. They decided to serve the food until it ran out, thinking they would have to disappoint some of the poor. Their prepared food lasted until the last person came through the line.

Some months ago, I spoke at my congregation. The theme was based on the scripture of the fishes and loaves. During my study, I found some commentaries that said everybody in the crowd that came to see Jesus was fed because of the generosity of the people there.

In those times, no one would have made the journey to where Jesus was speaking without also bringing along food for their travels. The commentary writers felt it was through Christ’s words and the sharing of the loaves and fishes that those with the food came to understand how all could benefit if they were generous with others.

In addition to giving for future generations, I contribute to my congregation and worldwide ministries to help alleviate poverty, near and far. While sometimes it seems what I give is only a drop in the ocean of need, I am reminded through my grandmother’s testimony and sermon study that it takes only a little from many to ensure all become free from hardship.

Prayer Phrase

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

Spiritual Practice

Overflowing Generosity

Spend five minutes thinking deeply about how God has shared abundantly with you in very specific ways. Where do you see God’s abundant generosity in your life? Say a prayer of thanksgiving for these blessings. Now, reminded of these blessings, think about how you can bless others. In what ways can God’s abundant generosity overflow from you to others? What specific blessing will you share with another this day?

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.