Have you ever noticed the two opposing ideologies of giving versus getting?  There are people whose main focus is on what they can get.  Every deal they negotiate is a must win situation for them.  Every desire they must experience.  Every situation is evaluated by what is in it for them.  They only give to get.  Their desire is to accumulate as much monetary toys as they can.  It is never enough.  On the other hand, believe it or not, there are people whose focus is on what they can give.  They donate a portion of their income faithfully to serve those less fortunate.  They negotiate every deal willing to give value to the other side.  They realize everything they own is something that will eventually be given away so why not give it away while they can enjoy the process. Both are a way of life: Giving vs. Getting.

Jesus even discussed this philosophy and summarized it by saying “it is more blessed to give than to receive.”  More blessed meaning it will bring us more happiness, joy, and fulfillment in our life. God is a Giver. God loves to give.  Whatever God owns He shares with others.  He constantly gives from His treasurers so we may enjoy life more abundantly.  We believe there isn’t anything He will refrain from giving to us as long as it wouldn’t destroy our eternal salvation.

As a disciple of His, we are learning to give as we see the need.  Giving is becoming a more natural process of thinking and relating with others.  It doesn’t always come easy.  Sometimes our carnal desire appears and needs to be confronted.  We are all probably a long way off from being like our Eternal Dad who gives sometimes what seems to be recklessly (from our human perspective).  But the process is in gear and the Holy Spirit leads us, confronts us, and gently massages us towards living life like God.

As a disciple of His, we hope to keep on giving until our last breath.  Jesus set the example while on the cross.  His focus was still on those around Him and not on Himself.  He made sure His mother was taken care for.  He prayed to God asking for forgiveness on those who physically carried through the hanging.  His heart and mind was on those around Him more than on Himself and His situation.  We hope when our time comes that we likewise follow our Lord’s example and bring smiles to the angels in Heaven and to our Heavenly Dad.  Only time will tell.

OUR PRAYER

Our Generous Dad, thank you for revealing a blessed way of life.  Thank you for teaching us the joy in true giving expecting nothing in return.  Thank you for your involvement and gifts that you have bestowed upon us.

You are truly awesome.  Help us to continue learning how to give, to share, and to sacrifice when necessary.  Help us to see the opportunities to be of service for others.  Help us to give of what we have of value.  Help us to give our money, time, and attention for others in need.  You know how we can be of service.  You know who needs what.  You know what we have to give.  Help us live life like you do!  Amen.