“When we move forward out of our tombs, we take steps toward becoming generous and grateful…As the money, energy, and time flow out, God becomes a richer presence in our lives.” - Stephen Smith, “The Lazarus Life”
One Sunday morning during an Adult Education lesson on the Gospels, Dr. James Kallas took a moment to discuss the geography of the Holy Land. The Sea of Galilee, he explained, flows into the Jordan River, and the Jordon River flows into the Dead Sea, which has no outlet. The Sea of Galilee teems with life, and the Dead Sea…is dead. Dr. Kallas compared this to faith. If we share what God gives us, if we “continue the flow,” we will be full of life; if we don’t…we won’t.
It’s a compelling analogy. Giving of our time and talent and treasure is not an obligation or duty but the simple outpouring of, as David puts it, a cup that overflows. Paul speaks to this in his request of generosity from the church in Corinth: “Each man should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to make all grace abound in you, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work.” (2 Corinthians 9:7-8)
We have all that we need to give.
Lord, create in us grateful and generous hearts. Amen
Jennifer Shaw
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