Give it Free!
Some stories bear repeating and, as we celebrate our freedom this week, I believe this is one of those stories. A very good lesson about giving was shared by my grandson when he was about 3 years old. Each Sunday, before worship, he would ask me to help him write his name on the offering envelope found in the back of the pew. He’d carefully put his money inside and take great pains to make sure it was sealed properly. One Sunday, we forgot to get his offering envelope ready and as the ushers walked to the front of the sanctuary, I whispered to my grandson, “Hurry, Sweetie, let’s get your name on the envelope.” He held out his hand, palm facing up, and said, “No, Grandma, today I’m going to give it free!” Understanding warmed my heart. He didn’t want credit for his offering. He wanted to give it free — no strings attached, no thank you required. He just wanted to give something to Jesus.
Jesus suffered and died on the cross to save us from our sin. He did this freely, out of His love for us. Because of His great gift of redemption, we take joy in giving our mite offerings freely so others may hear of God’s mercy and grace.
You may give an offering here as you celebrate freedom — in this country and in Christ.
But love your enemies, and do good, and lend, expecting nothing in return, and your reward will be great, (Luke 6:35a).
Today, and always, we are surrounded by God’s grace,
