Giving

As I neared Trader Joe’s (TJ’s) and about to go into the store to do some grocery shopping, a homeless gentleman approached me and asked for a dollar. I gestured that I would give him on my return. I did not want to be bothered getting my purse out of my pocketbook. I could do so while in the store. When I got out from TJ’s he was still there and I gave him a dollar. He thanked me and said, ‘Jesus loves you’. I echoed the same to him. I walked up to First Avenue and came across another homeless man who asked for money ‘to get something to eat’. I was close to a bakery so I decided to go in and I got him some freshly baked croissants and a hot cup of coffee. I handed them to him and he thanked me.

Later in the day and for some unknown reason, my mind strayed to my interactions with these two men. The first one had asked for a dollar and that was what I gave him. I could have given him more or less! The second had asked for money to get food and I chose to purchase the food and give it to him. I could have given him the money. Why are these two actions so reflective? It’s not the first time I had done exactly the same thing. Then I thought of the season of Lent leading to Easter. Giving is an important focus during Easter for Marble. One hundred percent of the proceeds of the annual Easter Offering gifts are given as grants to support the important work of non-profit organizations making a difference in our city and our world.

God emphasizes generosity and charitable giving as central to a life pleasing to Him. Scripture encourages giving out of love, gratitude, and a recognition that all possessions are gifts from God. Giving is seen as a form of worship, a demonstration of faith, and a way to bless others and oneself.

Key aspects of God’s teachings on giving:
• Generosity and Selflessness: God is a generous provider and expects His
followers to imitate His character by being generous and selfless.
• Giving with a Heart: Giving should be done willingly and joyfully, not begrudgingly or under compulsion.
• Blessing Through Giving: The Bible promises that giving brings blessings, both material and spiritual, to the giver.
• Giving to Others: Giving is not just about giving to the church, but also about helping those in need and showing compassion.
• Recognizing God’s Provision: God expects followers to recognize that their possessions are His gifts and to use them for His glory and the benefit of others.
• Secret Giving: Jesus taught that giving should be done in secret, rather than for public display.
• Tithing: While not explicitly a command in the New Testament, tithing (giving 10% of one’s income) is presented as a principle of giving and stewardship in the Old Testament.
• Giving as a Reflection of Faith: Generous giving demonstrates a heart that trusts in God’s provision and a willingness to serve others.

HAPPY EASTER IN ADVANCE
Shared by Agatha Pratt