In all things I have shown you that by working hard in this way we must help the weak and remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he himself said, “It is more blessed to give than receive.” –Acts 20:35

You’ve heard the old adage “It is better to be a parent than a child on Christmas morning.” How true is that?! I mean the look on their faces. The excitement in your heart because you know what is inside the box that they are about to open. You know how badly they have wanted this specific item. As a mom, you don’t even need a present because of that look on their face – that’s it. That’s the stuff. Jesus was the ultimate gift giver. He gave his life so that we could live ours, and that made him genuinly happy. He gave his life for every single one of us. He knew that we would often dismiss him. He knew we would push him to the back burner to go about our busy, self-centered lives. We were so unworthy, but he still gave. It is so important for us to remember the willingness that Jesus exuded in his giving. God has given us so much in hopes that we will, in turn, do the same. Whether it be time, money, love, a listening ear, or a strong arm, God wants us to truly give with our whole heart. With that being said, we cannot give with the expectation of gaining something in return for our works. It is extremely important for us to not get caught up in the “what’s in it for me” mentality. Matthew 6:3-4 states, “But when you give to the poor, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing so that your giving will be in secret; and your Father who sees what is done in secret will reward you.” You know what I love? I love the pay it forward movement. When I hear about people paying for other people’s coffee it just makes me happy. I mean how good does that feel! That’s just a small way to turn someone’s entire day around. Let’s start looking for small and large instances where we can give back or pay it forward. Let’s serve by giving. Let’s start a giving revolution.

God, today I want to give. Please place me in the path of someone that needs to see your light. Lead me to someone that truly needs help in some way. Please keep my heart in tune with yours so that I may truly see people’s needs through your eyes. Help me to remember that this is for your glory – not mine. Help me to truly be selfless. Amen.