“We want you to know, brothers, about the grace of God that has been given among the churches of Macedonia, for in a severe test of affliction, their abundance of joy and their extreme poverty have overflowed in a wealth of generosity.” 2 Cor. 8:1-2
Heavenly Father, What an amazing story—the severely afflicted, economically strapped Macedonians became a model of kingdom joy and radical generosity. We are seeing this same kind of generous living and giving, in response to the war in Ukraine. Much more will be needed for years to come.
Hearts and homes are welcoming displaced strangers. Checks are being cut. Containers are being sent. Children are being cared for. The Gospel is being shared, in both word and deed. You are being glorified. What more could we want in life?
Father, grant us the same grace and freedom, you gave the churches of Macedonia. You have enriched us in every way that we might be generous in every way (2 Cor. 9:11). Jesus, himself, was/is the quintessential cheerful giver. Though he was eternally rich, Jesus gladly became poor, that by his poverty we might become enriched beyond measure (2 Cor. 8:9).
Wise planning and prudent saving are one thing. But me-first, mercy-little, fear-fueled stockpiling is altogether different. You didn’t create and redeem us to be hoarders, but givers. Manna, the “daily bread” you gave the Israelites, became a smelly maggot-feast if hoarded (Exodus 16:19-20). (Yech!). We prefer the aroma of grace, so supersize our joy and generosity in these moments, and coming years. So Very Amen.