Jesus’ words to His disciples: “Fear not, little flock, for it is your Father’s
good pleasure to give you the kindgom.” ~ Luke 12:32
Those are choice words of Jesus which prompt us to give sacrificially and generously.
Consider that God delights to give us the kingdom which is described as an unending spring of water to satisfy our thirsty souls (John 4:13-14). The kingdom was assigned to Jesus by the Father before the foundation of the world. Jesus purchased it by means of His own blood and assigned it to His disciples (Luke 22:28-30; Hebrews 9:12). File that under sacrificial giving.
Jesus’ words seek to free us from the self-centered fear of not having enough or losing what we have. He knows His ‘little flock’ is weak and in danger, but He has the power to protect and care for the precious souls the Father draws to Him. He knows the kingdom care assigned to His disciples requires an upward and outward gaze. Look to God to meet our needs, not ourselves, not our wealth. Jesus commands us to lay up for ourselves ‘treasures in heaven’ (Matthew 6:19-21). John Piper says that means we are to aim to help others ‘to see more of the beauty of Jesus so that they are drawn with us into the heavenly reward. No genuine follower of Jesus wants to enjoy Jesus alone’.
There is a link between earthly generosity and heavenly enjoyment. Sacrificial generosity requires intentional, passionate giving so that Jesus becomes the treasure for others. Some can share their wealth; others time and effort; and still others, both. Regardless of the form of the gift, the poor widow shows us a gift’s value is not measured by its size but by its sacrifice (Mark 12:41-44).
May God continue to bless Hebron as we seek to minister to the least, the last and the lost by bringing them to Jesus.
Dan Gallagher, Stewardship Team