~ Give and Let Live ~
Posted: Tue Jun 21, 2011 9:49 pmRead: Luke 6:27-36 http://www.christianityoasis.com/bible/ ... ld_lookup=
Jesus said, "Give to everyone who begs from you." Luke 6:30 (NRSV)
A co-worker and I were discussing how to respond to those who ask for a handout. I've had similar conversations with various people, and I have come to this peaceful decision: to give to anyone who asks of me. I am or may not have exactly what they are looking or-whether it be a homeless person asking for change or someone who claims to have a broken down car at a gas station. But I take comfort in knowing that I am following Jesus" command, "Give to everyone who begs from you." I have decided to give without questioning whether there is a real need or not.
I believe Jesus calls us to respond with compassion. What recipients do with our donations is between them and God. I hope they may be inspired to pass the kindness on. Or, because someone answered their cry for help, maybe they will know they are not invisible. In any case, I pray my gift makes their day a little brighter. My thank-you is usually a smile and a "God Bless You".
I find great satisfaction knowing that I have answered Christ's call, even though I know I have been taken advantage of more than once. I am fortunate to have more than I need to and to have the means to share with those who ask.
Prayer: Please make us more aware, dear Lord, of daily reminders of your call to give - even when the calls come from never-dreamed-of-people and places. Amen
Prayer Focus of Day: Those who will ask for my help this week.
Thought for the Day: True gifts come with NO strings attached.
Story shared by: N. Lamar (TN)
Source: Upper Room Daily Devotional 6/22/11
Jesus said, "Give to everyone who begs from you." Luke 6:30 (NRSV)
A co-worker and I were discussing how to respond to those who ask for a handout. I've had similar conversations with various people, and I have come to this peaceful decision: to give to anyone who asks of me. I am or may not have exactly what they are looking or-whether it be a homeless person asking for change or someone who claims to have a broken down car at a gas station. But I take comfort in knowing that I am following Jesus" command, "Give to everyone who begs from you." I have decided to give without questioning whether there is a real need or not.
I believe Jesus calls us to respond with compassion. What recipients do with our donations is between them and God. I hope they may be inspired to pass the kindness on. Or, because someone answered their cry for help, maybe they will know they are not invisible. In any case, I pray my gift makes their day a little brighter. My thank-you is usually a smile and a "God Bless You".
I find great satisfaction knowing that I have answered Christ's call, even though I know I have been taken advantage of more than once. I am fortunate to have more than I need to and to have the means to share with those who ask.
Prayer: Please make us more aware, dear Lord, of daily reminders of your call to give - even when the calls come from never-dreamed-of-people and places. Amen
Prayer Focus of Day: Those who will ask for my help this week.
Thought for the Day: True gifts come with NO strings attached.
Story shared by: N. Lamar (TN)
Source: Upper Room Daily Devotional 6/22/11
