Daily Devotion

Today’s story was written by Pastor Pete Rudowski

I teach Sunday School every Sunday morning at Hyde Park Community United Methodist Church. On October 27, my class asked about the front page news story in the Enquirer describing the distribution of $60,000 by Good Shepherd's members to anyone in need. I described what I knew, the importance of providing members with an experience centering on the joy of giving, and the example given to children about sharing God's blessings. My class was blown away with what had taken place.

At the end of the class, a member said he was so impressed he wanted to be part of this experience. He ask if he would give me $100 would I give it to a particular person in need. He took out his wallet and handed me a $100 bill. Because of Good Shepherd's example and the story in the Enquirer, another individual is blessed. Finally, the pastors and Church Council have set an example not only for the members of Good Shepherd but also for other churches in the Cincinnati area, i.e., as God's people we share what God has first given us.

2 Corinthians 9:6-8

Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. ⁷ Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. ⁸ And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work.

Reflection: Have you ever had a moment when a spirit of generosity was so compelling you responded in a spontaneous way?