2 outta 3

I wanted to write tonight (Tuesday). I have time on my hands but couldn't decide on a topic. I opened my bible and was interrupted by a call from my boss.

We received word that our counseling program was awarded another grant. $17,550. That is 1/3 of the total funds sought. Three weeks prior, we heard about the first $10,000 award. Now as we wait to hear from the third entity, I can't help but feel confident about God fullfilling the request.

You see, I work for a community center sustained by prayer and donation. We serve many low-to-moderate income and destitute families, offering daycare services, after school program, summer camp, senior program, modeling, wrestling, counseling, etc.

So, this entry was not about advertising or requesting but about thankfulness to the cheerful givers God has graciously lead to us.

Honor the Lord with your wealth
and with the firstfruits of all your produce;
then your barns will be filled with plenty,
and your vats will be bursting with wine.

—Proverbs 3:9-10

Whoever brings blessing will be enriched,
and one who waters will himself be watered.

—Proverbs 11:25

Whoever is generous to the poor lends to the Lord,
and he will repay him for his deed.

—Proverbs 19:17

Whoever closes his ear to the cry of the poor
will himself call out and not be answered.

—Proverbs 21:13

Whoever has a bountiful eye will be blessed,
for he shares his bread with the poor.

—Proverbs 22:9

But when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, so that your giving may be in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will reward you.

—Matthew 6:3-4

If a brother or sister is poorly clothed and lacking in daily food, and one of you says to them, “Go in peace, be warmed and filled,” without giving them the things needed for the body, what good is that?

—James 2:15-16

Lord,

Thank you for filling us with your grace and mercy. Your love truly covers a multitude of sin, and you long to be the safe house and provider to your children. I want to add that it is easy for me to be thankful and to see your hands at work when such blessings pour down on us, but I ask that you be with me in the dark days. I ask that you shine your light on the smallest blessings that I take for granted. In my wealth, help me to give. In my despair, help me give hope to those in the midst of destitute destruction. When I cry about being a single mother, Lord, help me be thankful that my children are not orphans on a littered, dirt road begging for a filthy corner in a trembling shack. When I cry about being tired and alone, help me be thankful for my community and support system. They say it takes a village to raise a child, and Lord, help me remember the amazing village you have provided in my life. When I gripe about juggling weekend and visitation exhanges, help me be thankful that its not a prison or a tombstone we visit. You have been so good to me, and I thank you for giving me the right kind of heart to be thankful, transforming me into a joyful giver.

In Jesus Name,

Amen