We Have Received Freely. Now Freely Give

Hello Monday Morning,

  Once I had a pastor that started his day with a simple prayer.  "Lord what are you up to today?  Let me be part of it."  That's a good way to start our day, and our new week.

  An Irishman was down on his luck and was panhandling on Fifth Avenue before the annual St. Patrick's Day parade got underway in New York City. As a couple strolled by, he called out, "May the blessing of the Lord, which brings love and joy and wealth and a fine family, follow you all the days of your life." There was a pause as the couple passed his outstretched hand without contributing. Then he shouted after them, "And never catch up to you!" 

  If you are like me, your mailbox is stuffed with appeals from various organizations; your phone rings with individuals seeking pledges; some people even come right to your door with solicitations. After a while, we can fall into an attitude that sociologists call "compassion fatigue."  When I feel that happening, I become concerned that I might turn my back, even on worthy causes because I can't handle another request.

  We are thankful that God never suffers from "compassion fatigue".  No matter how often we go to Him with our needs, He never turns us away. His compassion is always available. 

  "Out of the depths have I cried unto Thee, O Lord, Lord, hear my voice: let Thine ears be attentive to the voice of my supplications.  If Thou, Lord, shouldest mark iniquities, O Lord, who shall stand?"

  "O give thanks unto the Lord; for He is good: for His mercy endureth forever."

 If we start our day, and this new week, asking Him what are you up to today, can I be part of it?  Then asking Him for wisdom in our giving from our financial resources, and from the riches of the gospel He has entrusted to us, we will recognize the worthy cause, and the troubled soul.  Yesterday, I heard our pastor say:   "Most people don't realize the value of their personal testimony; their own story."

 God bless you and yours today as you share, and remember that you are loved!!!

Henry