Ordinary Time

Pause

We fully open our hearts to you, O God, as we give.

Listen

Elijah said to her, “Don’t be afraid! Go and do what you said. Only make a little loaf of bread for me first. Then bring it to me. You can make something for yourself and your son after that. This is what Israel’s God, the Lord, says: The jar of flour won’t decrease and the bottle of oil won’t run out until the day the Lord sends rain on the earth.” The widow went and did what Elijah said. So the widow, Elijah, and the widow’s household ate for many days. The jar of flour didn’t decrease nor did the bottle of oil run out, just as the Lord spoke through Elijah.

1 Kings 17:13-16

Think

I can imagine what this widow was thinking: I only have enough for myself and my son! To make matters worse, I am fearful we are going to die.

Fear. It is the weight keeping us from giving our all. Our church is planning a mission trip to Africa next year, and I wonder if people will not take part because of fear.

Yet the widow in this story overcame her fear, and she decided to do what Elijah wanted. She had faith. She knew that God would provide for her. She knew that God would protect her.  Notice the blessing that she received.

So, what about Africa? I am hesitant to give it my all because I am scared – but then I look to the widow. Like God provided for her, God will do the same thing for me and for you. When we’re asked to take a chance, let’s give it our all, for we will be ok, thanks to our loving God. Matter of fact, we might be blessed. (Ask me next year when we get back!)

Andy Hart

Pray

Gracious Lord, I rejoice at your mercy. Be with me as I deal with fear; remind me that you are with me forever. Amen.

Go

Someone once said: “We make a living by what we get. We make a life by what we give.”

Go out today to make your life by giving.

Give love, give joy, give selflessly, give generously.

Give your all.