(Editor’s Note: This column is written by a different Littlefield pastor for the Leader-News each week. The columns are published on this page on Wednesdays.)
This past Sunday I was blessed to preach on the Joy of Generosity. It was based on Philippians 4:14-23. Paul wrote a holy and practical letter to the Church in Philippi thanking them for their gifts that kept him going on his missionary journey.
As I reflect on Sunday, I give thanks for the many generous people in my life. I can think of dozens of amazing people who consistently give their time, treasure, and talent to help others. I’m curious, do you know any generous people? They’re easy to spot. They’re the ones who always pick up the check for your meal, and they never remind you of it. They’re the people who take meals to families in need. They’re the ones who quietly do what is necessary to make sure everyone has what they need. But why would they do that?
Here’s why, they know a little secret: It is more blessed to give than to receive. Those are the words of Jesus and it’s something that every Christian realizes in time. When I was a young, I didn’t really believe this. I thought it was better to receive than to give. Each year at Christmas I would provide an enormous list of all the things I desired.
And I wanted a lot of things like Ninja Turtles and cool clothes. But as I’ve gotten older, I’ve realized the much greater joy is for the person who is giving. Everything we have is a gift from God and it’s amazing when we begin to learn the art of giving. On a side note, our church provides Food Boxes through the South Plains Food Bank each month to 150 families in Lamb County. The cost of these boxes has recently increased by $750 per month. I’m not concerned and fully believe God will provide for this ministry but if you feel called to make a special donation towards this effort, I know you’d be blessed. Simply contact the church for more details. If you give, it will be given to you. I have found that generous people are blessed people.
Love You all, Pastor Tanner Wilson