Am I willing?

If there is first a willing mind, it is accepted according to what one has, and not according to what he does not have. — 2 Corinthians 8:12

Guest speaker John De Vries challenged the congregation to give to missions. As the people filled out pledge cards, he noticed a young boy write something and show it to his parents, who smiled approvingly. A minute later he saw him whisper something into his dad’s ear. His father was obviously amused.

After the service the father told John that the youngster had pledged his entire weekly allowance, but then had whispered, “Dad, I guess you know that I’ll be needing a raise.” No wonder he was so amused. In spite of the boy’s attempt to cover his loss, his parents were pleased with the willing generosity of his gift.

In Mark 12:41, we read that Jesus sat down and watched as rich people cast large gifts into the temple treasury. Then a widow came and dropped in two coins — the smallest in circulation at that time. Knowing that this was all the money she had, Jesus said to His disciples, “This poor widow has put in more than all those who have given to the treasury” (v.43).

Jesus wasn’t implying that we must give away all our money. Rather, He was saying that we must give from a heart that is totally devoted to the Lord and willing to trust Him fully. That’s the kind of giving that pleases God.  — Herb Vander Lugt

Grant us, then, the grace of giving

With a spirit large and free,

That our life and all our living

We may consecrate to Thee.  — Murray

READ: Mark 12:41-44

You can give without loving, but you can’t love without giving.

The Bible in one year:

• Ecclesiastes 1-3