Sacrificial Giving

Many years ago now, my daughter Emily got into making small clay animals. They were really cool – and she was able to sell them for a dollar apiece to friends, family, and neighbors. Over the course of about a year, she accumulated a hundred dollars – including some money she got at Christmas time. That was a lot of money for a nine-year-old!

At that time my sister was working in a shelter for women and children who are escaping abusive relationships. At some point, Emily got to thinking about the kids in this shelter who might be about her age – and about how they might be missing their toys and clothes and homes. So, Emily decided that she wanted to give some of her money to help. I’d been talking to her about tithing – giving away 10 percent of her money – but she hadn’t quite bought into that. In fact, in her mind, that wasn’t going to be enough to help. So, when she finally reached the $100 mark, she gave me the whole waded up ball of money – mostly crumpled one-dollar bills – and she said, “Here, Daddy. I want to give all of this to the Oasis shelter.”

It’s crazy, I actually tried to talk her into keeping some of it for herself – but she wasn’t having any of that. She said, “No Daddy. I want to give it all.”

It is a beautiful thing to be inspired by a child. Reflecting on her compassion makes me want to be more compassionate. Her generosity, makes me want to be more generous. Her willingness to sacrifice what she could have for the sake of others reminds me of how sacrificial giving toward a worthy cause touches something deep in the soul.

Thank you, Emily, for inspiring your Dad!

Let us pray: Loving God, on this Memorial Day we thank you also for the men and women who have served this country in the military over the years, for their families, and for all those who sacrificed for the sake of others. We pray especially today for our veterans, those who need your love and our support. Bring healing and mercy where it is needed. And hasten the day on Earth when wars will cease and your peace will reign.

Above all, we thank you for the sacrificial love you shower on us in the gift of your Son – who gave his life for us. In response to all our blessings – as individuals and as a nation – show us ways that we can be a blessing to others; for we remember today that you bless us to be a blessing! In Jesus’ name. Amen.