Giving

He was a new Christian, in his mid-30’s. Becoming a Christian had turned his life upside down, in a wonderful way. For the first time in his life, he took a needy child Christmas shopping as part of the church Bus Ministry.

Some of the children would not have Christmas presents if it were not for the donations from the congregation. This year, as most of those before, people gave and children benefited.

A specific evening is set up, the children (and parents if they wish) are taken to the local Wal-Mart, given a specific amount to spend, then allowed to shop. Most go for warm clothes, a necessity in cold winters.

This time, however, the new Christian was with a third-grader who had never owned a bike, and his eyes were shining as they caught sight of the display of dozens of brightly colored ones, two rows high. The joy faded as the boy relived the many times he had been told by the grandmother raising him that money was limited and had to be stretched.

Keeping his hand in that of the man with him, he started to move away. But his companion was more adapt at math, and the price on a particular model was well within budget. Even left a bit over for a coat or heavy sweater.

The two of them shopped, figured and bought the bicycle. The man still remarks about the look on the child’s face.

Yesterday our church and another combined to present an auction to the community. Our goal to fund Christmas presents for two church bus ministries was met and the cup overflowed!

There was an immense range of items auctioned: baked goods, blankets, tools, farm implements, decorations and more. Items purchased and items handcrafted. One I wish I had was a spaghetti dinner donated by a church member. He would go to their home, prepare and serve the dinner to the winner’s family. Would you believe that went for over $100?

Why? Because the people at the auction last night believe the Bible when it says:

Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver. (2 Corinthians 9:7 KJV)

Participants were looking for some bargains, but they were also looking for some blessings. Both were available in the same room.

Being enriched in every thing to all bountifulness, which causeth through us thanksgiving to God. (2 Corinthians 9:11 KJV)

May God bless you in such a way that you may see through a child’s eyes the wonder of an unachievable gift, and through an adult’s the immeasurable love of God.