March 27, 2016

GIVING OF OUR FIRSTFRUITS

Wisdom of Sirach 35:7-10 LXX

Glorify the Lord with your generosity,
And do not reduce the firstfruits of your hands.
In every gift let your face be cheerful,
And sanctify your tithe with gladness.
Give to the Most High as He has given to you,
And give to Him with generosity, according to your windfall.
For the Lord is He who repays,
And He will repay you sevenfold.

Encouraging Words

Why do we give to our Lord? Is it because we are commanded to? No! Is it so that we get more back or earn our way into heaven? No! Is it because we feel guilty for our sins? No! We give because we are grateful for all that has been given to us and we desire to return the firstfruits of it so that others can be touched by His love. What do we give? We give of our material wealth, which is money, or goods, or the things that money can buy, like bringing a dish to the fellowship hour. But God also enjoys other firstfruits of our lives, such as our time, our ability to reach out to those in need, our love for another, and anything else that is a result of His blessings poured out on us. We give because our love for Him is greater than our love for what we are giving up. Glory be to God!