Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you. Luke 6:38 (NIV)
As a former primary school teacher, I am fascinated by the thinking processes of children and how unspoiled they can be. They tend to be uncomplicated in their world view and pure in their logic.
Having a passel of grandchildren, I love to observe and share with their parents the intuitive understandings that I glean from these young prodigies. Take William, for instance. He has been working with his dad on his miniature car for the Cub Scout derby race. Chris and William have selected and carved out the design, gotten just the right wheels, added weights to balance the machine, and checked to make sure all the results of their hard work meet the specifications.
In the middle of this intense activity, William was visiting with me and asked if he could type a note to his friend – yes, I still have a typewriter, which continues to fascinate my grandchildren. I set William up with paper and helped him align it on the antique equipment, and he began to write. “Dear David, We need to make a play date. I hope you win the derby.” With all his efforts, seven-year-old William was wishing his friend would win.
And there was the morning at children’s church. To teach the children to give, an offering is taken, and each child puts in his small gift. At offering time, William remembered that his dad had forgotten to give him some change. He was expressing his annoyance to his seat mate who was quick to relieve his frustration. “Don’t worry, William. My dad gave me a dollar.” And with that he proceeded to tear his dollar in two and gave one-half to William.
That’s what children are like. That’s generosity.
Father, we are told to become like little children. Help us to free ourselves from the selfishness that makes us hold onto our desires, our things, our time, and all the things that keep us from being like Jesus who gave his all. AMEN.
agodforeveryday 