Generosity During Covid-19
When I arrived at the church the other day I found gifts on the front steps. Someone had left, on our front steps, bags of clothing, toys, artwork (I don't know what all is in those bags) to give to whoever might need it. Each of the birds taped to the door has been hand colored and there is a different scripture verse written on each one. The small note taped to the bar between the doors reads "FREE clothing. Take what you need and leave the rest for others in need."
I have no idea who left all of this. I was delighted when I found it.
In all the news and numbers and models of measurement that I follow and try to stay updated on, this gesture of generosity reminds me of the goodness of God that continues to be present and active among us. God's grace and goodness are not stopped by a virus; in fact, I wonder if the virus may actually work as a catalyst to motivate and promote increasing acts of goodness and generosity.
Christianity is an incarnational faith - we believe in Emmanuel - God who is with us.
We believe in Jesus who lives within us.
God's Spirit lives within and among us.
How are you recognizing that?
What gestures of goodness, generosity, mercy, kindness, patience, peace are you experiencing?
In the gospel of John, when Jesus met with his disciples after his resurrection he greeted them with the words, "Peace be with you." And he breathed the Holy Spirit on them empowering them to embody the presence of God in the world, just as he had done." As the Father has sent me, so I send you."
In the gospel of Matthew Jesus reminded them, "Remember, I am with you always, to the end of the age."
In this very uncertain time of upheaval in every sector of life, how are you experiencing Jesus' presence in your everyday life? How are you recognizing God's presence and action?
Share your stories so that together we can rejoice and be enouraged!
I have no idea who left all of this. I was delighted when I found it.
In all the news and numbers and models of measurement that I follow and try to stay updated on, this gesture of generosity reminds me of the goodness of God that continues to be present and active among us. God's grace and goodness are not stopped by a virus; in fact, I wonder if the virus may actually work as a catalyst to motivate and promote increasing acts of goodness and generosity.
Christianity is an incarnational faith - we believe in Emmanuel - God who is with us.
We believe in Jesus who lives within us.
God's Spirit lives within and among us.
How are you recognizing that?
What gestures of goodness, generosity, mercy, kindness, patience, peace are you experiencing?
In the gospel of John, when Jesus met with his disciples after his resurrection he greeted them with the words, "Peace be with you." And he breathed the Holy Spirit on them empowering them to embody the presence of God in the world, just as he had done." As the Father has sent me, so I send you."
In the gospel of Matthew Jesus reminded them, "Remember, I am with you always, to the end of the age."
In this very uncertain time of upheaval in every sector of life, how are you experiencing Jesus' presence in your everyday life? How are you recognizing God's presence and action?
Share your stories so that together we can rejoice and be enouraged!
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2 Comments
The story that Wilma has related of the gifts of kindness illustrates the heritage from which we continue to benefit. We have a society based on justice and compassion that has not yet been lost. May we continue to protect it and thank God for it. So many people are suffering as their leaders have destroyed their country in their desire for the pleasures of this world.
Jesus' final message, which we call the great commision, which Wilma has quoted from in her blog, is recorded in all four gospels and the book of Acts. Seemingly the most important challenge That Jesus gives us. As we share our material possessions my we learn to share this most important gift of life eternal, to know God.
Els and I have often been encouraged to be thankful as we walk through Riverview. Little encouraging messages chalked onto the sidewalk, children's happy paintings in the windows, "ministry of silly walks" sidewalk sections, scavenger hunts for Winnipeg Jets team member faces in windows, scavenger hunts for animals posted here and there, and thoughtful people who cross to the other side of the street and then call out a cheerful "Beautiful morning isn't it?". Thankful for neighbors who shop for you, for Bob who drops chocolate cookies in the mailbox, for kids who call just to see how you are doing. And all that without even mentioning the incredible family of faith that is so supportive and encouraging. We are blessed.