Daily Devotion

As we kick off our month long theme of Joyful Generosity here is a story shared by the Hill Family regarding what they did when they received a check on God’s Grace Your Hands Sunday last September:

The timing of this gift from GSLC, entrusted to our family, to spread God's love and grace couldn't have arrived at a better time. Just days before we attended church for God's Grace Your Hands, my husband had been approached by a family at the elementary school where he is on staff, asking if there were food bags available for a family in need. At the same time my husband  discovered that a family was homeless and living out of their car in the school parking lot. We immediately asked ourselves what we could do to help. During the service on that fateful Sunday, God made it clear. I remember having tears fall down my face as Pastor Alex and Pastor Alice shared the checks, because it was as if God was clearly telling us to take action regarding the issue of child hunger that had hit so close to home just days before.

I've never believed more strongly in God and the Holy Spirit than in that moment. We especially liked the invitation for people to combine the treasure "check" with time and talent. So in partnership with Prince of Peace Lutheran Church in Loveland who coordinates the local food pantry, we decided to buy the food as well as pack breakfast bags at our house for children who might otherwise be hungry over the weekend. These children go to school alongside our own children.  We were able to fill 100 bags, and delivered them today.

Additionally, my son had a passionate plea to also contribute to the Alzheimer's Association, in recognition of relatives who have passed away as a result of memory loss. It was fun to see him be aware of giving, and to feel strongly about a cause that I hope he will carry with him as he grows up. We are so proud to be a part of GSLC, and we are beyond grateful for Ruth Grassman for affording our family this opportunity to see God use our hands to spread grace to those that have a special place in our hearts.

From Matthew’s Gospel the 14^th chapter, the story of the feeding of the 5,000-
 As evening approached, the disciples came to Jesus and said, “This is a remote place, and it’s already getting late. Send the crowds away, so they can go to the villages and buy themselves some food.”
¹⁶ Jesus replied, “They do not need to go away. You give them something to eat.”
¹⁷ “We have here only five loaves of bread and two fish,” they answered.

Reflection questions and Prayer

Have you ever come face to face with the struggle of poverty?  Do you know the name or the story of a person who may not have anything to eat today?  What might Jesus do with your simple gift of 5 loaves and two fish?

Today please pray that all children will have enough to eat and a safe place to sleep.

Have you ever come face to face with the struggle of poverty?  Do you know the name or the story of a person who may not have anything to eat today?  What might Jesus do with your simple gift of 5 loaves and two fish?

Today please pray that all children will have enough to eat and a safe place to sleep.