As we get closer to the season of Advent and Christmas, we are often asked to donate items, money and sometimes even our own time. As Christians, the Bible is clear throughout its pages that we’re called to give generously. In Exodus 35, we see the Israelites all generously giving the materials and time to build the tabernacle. If any of those people decided to withhold the materials they owned or the skills they had, the tabernacle wouldn’t have come together. In Malachi 3, giving is the one thing God tells us to test him in. In the New Testament God himself gave us his only son because he loves us so much, and that Son died on a cross for us. It sets a model that generosity in God’s people should be sacrificial.  

Why should we give generously?  

This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers and sisters. If anyone has material possessions and sees a brother or sister in need but has no pity on them, how can the love of God be in that person? Hebrews 13 tells us - And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased.  

God, we do not want to live selfishly and ignore the needs of others.

Lord, teach us to share without expecting something in return.

We open our hearts to your compassion so we can help other people who need our help the most.  

We pray in the name of Jesus, Amen.