Thursday, December 9

2 Corinthians 8:7-12
“Now as you excel in everything— in faith, in speech, in knowledge, in utmost eagerness, and in our love for you— so we want you to excel also in this
generous undertaking.”


Our giving is a big part of our relationship with God. Paul tells us how to give. Paul told the Corinthians how to give with joy, not with a grudge. The Macedonians were a poor nation, but they gave to help the poor people in Jerusalem with joy. Paul was pointing this out to the Corinthians, not to tell them how much to give but how to give generously, and wanting to help others. We are to give all we can— not to become impoverished, but to help others as much as we can. Not to give grudgingly, but generously, with joy from our hearts.

Jesus was rich before he was incarnate, but become poor as a human. No home, no money, but he had great care and love for each of us. He gave everything with joy and love.
Paul wants us to be leaders in giving. Giving is a natural response of love. Paul does not order the Corinthians to give but encourages us to give showing our love is sincere. When you love someone you want to give your time and provide for their needs. If you refuse to help, your love is not a genuine as you say. We are so blessed in all things and need to share with the needy. When it comes time to share do it with a SMILE and JOY in your heart.
Holy Spirit, open us and all people to the call of the gospel.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.

-Estelle Nusbaum

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