When was the last time someone asked you to do something for them and you said “no” because you simply did not have time? Maybe you said no because you didn’t feel that you had the ability or the resources. Stop and think about what kind of giver you are. In our “microwave” society it seems we just don’t have or don’t take the time to give. We seem to be too caught up in “getting” to give. Some are trying so hard to get money or fame that they rarely take the time out to give. I’m not talking about the loose change you give at the gas station for the next customer who is short a penny, or the dollar bills you drop in the red pail during the holidays. I’m not even talking about the five dollars a month many send to feed the children or to the Make a Wish Foundation.
Those are all excellent ways to give, and I commend anyone who gives back in any manner. But what I’m focused on is the giving of oneself. I pay my tithes and work in ministry but recently I was singing a song by Eumika Body-Griffin called “All of Me” and it made me think. I was singing and thinking do I really give the Lord all of me? Matthew 19:16-22 tells the story of a rich young ruler who desired eternal life. He approached Jesus and asked, “What good thing must I do that I may have eternal life.” Jesus answered by giving him a list of commandments to follow. To which the young man replied in (so many words) “been there done that.” So Jesus challenged him, by saying “If you want to be perfect, go sell what you have and give to the poor and you will have treasure in heaven, and come follow me.”
At that point the conversation was over. The young ruler didn’t even respond verbally. We all know that actions speak louder than words. I’m sure there were many thoughts that crossed that young rulers mind as he walked away like “Is this dude crazy?” Scripture says he simply turned and walked away from Jesus in sorrow for he had great possessions. Doesn’t that happen today? Wealthy people are often sorrowful despite what they have, especially (in my opinion) when they don’t have Jesus. The old saying is true “Money cannot buy happiness.” Can you imagine someone challenging a wealthy young “ruler” like Justin Bieber, to give away everything! From gifts he has received to the expensive items he has been able to purchase.
What would you do if someone told you that all you had to do to live forever was to give away all you owned to the poor? Isn’t that still what Jesus wants? He knows we need things including money to sustain us though He does expect us to give tangible things. I believe what He wants from us most of all is…us. Luke 10:27 says “You shall love the Lord you God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your strength and with all your mind.” How can you love anyone like this without giving them your all? If you have ever been in love before, you know it takes energy to love someone fully. And if you do love them fully, you also know that in order for them to know that you love them, you have to give to them. You give them time, gifts, and words of expression among other things.
So why not give to a God who has done so much for you? Why not give Him your heart, mind, soul and strength as well as your time, talents, prayers and faith? Don’t be like the rich young ruler; step up to the plate and be a true giver. Give Christ all of you. Think about it.
Published in "On the Rocks Arrest"
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