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BIBLE MEMORIZATION
Philippians 4:4 is perhaps the first Bible verse I ever memorized as a child because I wanted to, not because I was encouraged to learn a particular verse or Bible passage.
I learned it from the King James translation of the Bible because that was the Bible I used during the days of my youth: “Rejoice in the Lord always: and again I say, Rejoice.” (KJV)
The verse did serve as a guide for me; how I was to live. It was a verse consistent with the instruction, the encouragement of my maternal grandmother, Hettie Archer. She did not like it if I pouted. She wanted me to be happy, and told me so. She would be happy today because of her influence to me. “Train up a child in the way he should go, Even when he is old he will not depart from it” Proverbs 22:6 (NASB).
I learned it from the King James translation of the Bible because that was the Bible I used during the days of my youth: “Rejoice in the Lord always: and again I say, Rejoice.” (KJV)
The verse did serve as a guide for me; how I was to live. It was a verse consistent with the instruction, the encouragement of my maternal grandmother, Hettie Archer. She did not like it if I pouted. She wanted me to be happy, and told me so. She would be happy today because of her influence to me. “Train up a child in the way he should go, Even when he is old he will not depart from it” Proverbs 22:6 (NASB).
This year the theme of our Pastor, Rev. Tate Crenshaw is JOY. Interesting to me is the word joy appears in the Bible dozens and dozens of times. I'm glad this verse, the first memorized as a child stays with me as a guide to rejoice in the Lord ~ it leads me to live a joyful life.
In closing let me direct you to Pauls letter to the church at Philippi chapter 4:4-9. It is rich; full of encouragement that guides us in how to live a Joyful life.
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Christmas Greeting Part II
JANUARY 2023
We just enjoyed another Christmas season. A time to enjoy family and friends. A time to give and to receive. Now that a new year is upon us we move forward yet again. Let us not leave behind the importance of the impact that this little Jesus child has had on everything, yes everything since His birth over 2,000 years ago.
The shepherds heard
The glorious proclamation
That the Savior was born -
And with their hearts,
They rejoiced in the gift of
God’s amazing love.
= = = = = = = =
Worthy ONE
EMANUEL
God with us
THE WORD JESUS
Prince of Peace
Light of the world
The Shepherd
The risen One
LORD
= = = = = = = =
This Christmas season and in the new year,
May you rest in the deep assurance
That in knowing Him you have everything.
God’s Blessings to you.
= = = = = = = =
For unto us a Child is born, unto us a Son is given:
And the government shall be upon His shoulder:
And His name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor,
The Mighty God, The Everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.
Isaiah 9:6 KJV
= = = = = = = =
This Christmas, may your be reminded
of the MIRACLE of Christ’s birth,
And may the HOPE the LORD brings
Follow you into the new year.
= = = = = = = =
For unto you is born this day,
In the city of David, a Savior,
Who is Christ the Lord.
Luke 2:11
= = = = = = = =
JESUS
He came not to a throne, but to a manger.
He lived not as a king, but as a servant.
He chose not a kingdom, but a cross.
He gave not just a little, but everything.
Holley Gerth
We just enjoyed another Christmas season. A time to enjoy family and friends. A time to give and to receive. Now that a new year is upon us we move forward yet again. Let us not leave behind the importance of the impact that this little Jesus child has had on everything, yes everything since His birth over 2,000 years ago.
The shepherds heard
The glorious proclamation
That the Savior was born -
And with their hearts,
They rejoiced in the gift of
God’s amazing love.
= = = = = = = =
Worthy ONE
EMANUEL
God with us
THE WORD JESUS
Prince of Peace
Light of the world
The Shepherd
The risen One
LORD
= = = = = = = =
This Christmas season and in the new year,
May you rest in the deep assurance
That in knowing Him you have everything.
God’s Blessings to you.
= = = = = = = =
For unto us a Child is born, unto us a Son is given:
And the government shall be upon His shoulder:
And His name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor,
The Mighty God, The Everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.
Isaiah 9:6 KJV
= = = = = = = =
This Christmas, may your be reminded
of the MIRACLE of Christ’s birth,
And may the HOPE the LORD brings
Follow you into the new year.
= = = = = = = =
For unto you is born this day,
In the city of David, a Savior,
Who is Christ the Lord.
Luke 2:11
= = = = = = = =
JESUS
He came not to a throne, but to a manger.
He lived not as a king, but as a servant.
He chose not a kingdom, but a cross.
He gave not just a little, but everything.
Holley Gerth
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Christmas greeting Part I
Time to enjoy another Christmas season. A time to enjoy family and friends. A time to give and to receive. Now that a new year is upon us we move forward yet again. Let us not leave behind the importance of the impact that this little Jesus child has had on everything; yes everything since His birth over 2,000 years ago.
Some verses from Christmas cards PART I
Of the dozens and dozens of Christmas cards and greetings, we share some of them with you now and some in January 2023.
= = = = = = = =
May the BEAUTY of the SEASON
Reflect the MIRACLE of Christ’s birth,
And may it fill you heart now and in the New Year.
= = = = = = = =
We have joy because Jesus came …
We have hope because He’s coming again.
May that joy and hope be yours …
not just for a season
but in each day of your life
= = = = = = = =
LONG AGO ONE SILENT NIGHT,
God revealed His glory bright,
His Own image came to man
For Salvation’s matchless plan.
JESUS, SAVIOR, SHEPHERD, KING -
Lord of all to you we bring
Praises, wonder, thanks, and love
For this gift from God above.
= = = = = = = =
REJOICE
In the SPIRIT of Christmas which is PEACE,
The MIRACLE of Christmas which is HOPE,
And the HEART of Christmas which is LOVE
= = = = = = = =
Enjoy the wonder of the season, with plenty of time
To be refreshed in God’s most precious gifts -
The warmth of friends and family, and lasting love and peace.
= = = = = = = =
Do you ponder the refreshing verses on the Christmas cards you receive? Take time this year with a cup of tea or coffee or wassail and enjoy the verse and personal notes from your family and friends. You will be refreshed and energized for the New Year that lies ahead.
Blessings to you for health and happiness in all of 2023 and beyond as you embrace the LOVE and HOPE provided by our Savior, Jesus the Christ. yes the Christ of Christmas.
Some verses from Christmas cards PART I
Of the dozens and dozens of Christmas cards and greetings, we share some of them with you now and some in January 2023.
= = = = = = = =
May the BEAUTY of the SEASON
Reflect the MIRACLE of Christ’s birth,
And may it fill you heart now and in the New Year.
= = = = = = = =
We have joy because Jesus came …
We have hope because He’s coming again.
May that joy and hope be yours …
not just for a season
but in each day of your life
= = = = = = = =
LONG AGO ONE SILENT NIGHT,
God revealed His glory bright,
His Own image came to man
For Salvation’s matchless plan.
JESUS, SAVIOR, SHEPHERD, KING -
Lord of all to you we bring
Praises, wonder, thanks, and love
For this gift from God above.
= = = = = = = =
REJOICE
In the SPIRIT of Christmas which is PEACE,
The MIRACLE of Christmas which is HOPE,
And the HEART of Christmas which is LOVE
= = = = = = = =
Enjoy the wonder of the season, with plenty of time
To be refreshed in God’s most precious gifts -
The warmth of friends and family, and lasting love and peace.
= = = = = = = =
Do you ponder the refreshing verses on the Christmas cards you receive? Take time this year with a cup of tea or coffee or wassail and enjoy the verse and personal notes from your family and friends. You will be refreshed and energized for the New Year that lies ahead.
Blessings to you for health and happiness in all of 2023 and beyond as you embrace the LOVE and HOPE provided by our Savior, Jesus the Christ. yes the Christ of Christmas.
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Jesus' Prayer
In the study of Philippians in the LifeGroup of our church (a home Bible Study) we this week focused on the second chapters’ first four verses. The writer, Paul had observed the church at Philippi was theologically sound, devoted, moral, loving, zealous, courageous, prayerful and generous. It did face the danger of discord usually generated by only a few people. It’s interesting to note the same thing is true today in our world. We experience conflict and discord not only in our world, country, state, county and city where we live but also in our churches.
So, it is not surprising at all that Paul shares in a concise and practical way the importance of unity in the body of Christ.
Therefore if there is any encouragement in Christ, if there is any consolation of love, if there is any fellowship of the Spirit, if any affection and compassion, make my joy complete by being of the same mind, maintaining the same love, united in spirit, intent on one purpose. Do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit, but with humility of mind regard one another as more important than yourselves; do not merely look out for your own personal interests, but also for the interests of others. Philippians 2:1-4
Further study led me to the prayer of Jesus as recorded in John 17. Jesus prayed in three focused ways in this prayer.
- He prayed for Himself - vs. 1-5
- He prayed for His disciples - vs. 6-19
- He prayed for us (all believers) vs. 20-26
I’m praying not only for them
But also for those who will believe in me
Because of them and their witness about me.
The goal is for all of them to become one heart and mind--
Just as you, Father, are in me and I in you,
So they might be one heart and mind with us.
Notice the phrase, “those who will believe in me”, that’s you and me. And the “goal” as stated is for all of us to become one heart and mind.
THINK about it. Ponder these things. Consider how to be of one mind with Jesus.
That’s the take-away to the study in Philippians 2:1-4.
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the "church" is more than a building
How important is your church building to you?
The Bible tells us the church is the body of Christ. Colossians 1:24
The Bible tells us the church is the body of Christ. Colossians 1:24
a church in Indonesia
Our partner in Indonesia is making an impact in the lives of people. Here is the latest project we are supporting with your gifts this quarter 2022.
As one of our most successful departments, we continue to find ways to pour into our Church Makeover Program so we can always have new projects to focus on and people to bless. Each time we successfully complete a church renovation, we leave a lasting positive impact on the community around it.
We strongly believe our next project should focus on a small church in Pollo village located in Kupang called Isa Almasih.
Our attention was instantly pulled to the concerning condition of this church. Simple buildings made of palm branch walls usually don't last long especially with a roof of palm leaves that invite termites. The church is already slanted with evidence of a termite infestation.
Our attention was instantly pulled to the concerning condition of this church. Simple buildings made of palm branch walls usually don't last long especially with a roof of palm leaves that invite termites. The church is already slanted with evidence of a termite infestation.
Founded in 2008, this little church measures 5 x 9 meters and is the only place of worship for several miles. It includes 14 families with a total of 67 people living in the Village. As always, despite the conditions, the congregants come together and rejoice in the Lord with all their hearts. How can we not honor such a spirit?
“Currently the congregation has a very simple building with a palm leaf roof and walls made of palm branches. Every time the congregation worships, it is difficult because the roof has leaked and when it rains water enters and wets the congregation while worshiping. Even though the church is simple, the congregation is still diligent in worshiping. The congregation here really needs a helping hand for the presence of a permanent building so that people can worship properly.” Said Pastor Sefnat Paanea Liu.
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October 2, 2022 will be World Communion Sunday. A supporting church to our ministry asked me for photos that reflect people either praying together or taking communion or participating in a worship service. They will put the photos together in a slide show to be used in worship and place it on their website. It will be amazing to see the photos provided by the dozens of ministries they support.
This gave us an opportunity to share an incredible experience I had some years ago. For the first time ever the millions of Dalit people in India were invited to New Delhi to hear about other religious beliefs to encourage them to change from the oppressive hinduism that prevented them from experiencing the religious freedom they desired. I was invited as a representative of the press partly because I had a current visa to the country.
The word "Dalit " means "oppressed" or "broken" and is the name members of this group gave themselves in the 1930s. A Dalit is actually born below the caste system, which includes four primary castes: Brahmins (priests), Kshatriya (warriors and princes), Vaishya (farmers and artisans), and Shudra (tenant farmers and servants). India's Untouchables were the Dalit.
Here are two of my photos from that event when people by the hundreds of thousands heard about Jesus for the first time. One million people were invited yet the government closed the railway system entering the city. It was a mess.
The word "Dalit " means "oppressed" or "broken" and is the name members of this group gave themselves in the 1930s. A Dalit is actually born below the caste system, which includes four primary castes: Brahmins (priests), Kshatriya (warriors and princes), Vaishya (farmers and artisans), and Shudra (tenant farmers and servants). India's Untouchables were the Dalit.
Here are two of my photos from that event when people by the hundreds of thousands heard about Jesus for the first time. One million people were invited yet the government closed the railway system entering the city. It was a mess.
This might be a time for you to be thankful for the religious freedom you enjoy. And it might be a good time to pray for those who have not jet heard the name Jesus. Might someone share their faith in the Son of God, Jesus the Messiah, Son of God.
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In years past as the owner of a business I made it a practice to make sure personal communications happened. It might be a personal thank you to someone or to write to someone about something of interest to both of us that would maintain friendships. It might be to ask a favor. It might be to make an introduction to two of my friends and contacts. Usually that results in a win-win situation. It makes a day a rewarding day. And there was always a business opportunity to be explored.
One way to make this happen was to set a goal, a discipline to writing and sending five letters a week, one per work week day. Those five letters were beyond the ongoing business that needed constant attention. This came to mind the first few days of September as I considered writing this BLOG. Cleaning my email Inbox and Sent messages files is vital to work clean.
I try to keep the Box as current as possible. It serves as my TO DO LIST almost. If it is in the Inbox it keeps my attention. With the volume of my communications it is almost impossible to keep it current.
I recall a time in our early married life I worked one Christmas time at the local post office sorting mail. It was during my break from college at the main office in San Luis Obispo, California. My assignment was to sort piles and piles of incoming mail to the surrounding cities. Piles and piles of mail were placed below my feet under the slots for the cities. I would grab a bunch and place them in the alphabetically organized slots. It was almost impossible to get all of the stack below me clean. New batches arrived constantly.
One way to make this happen was to set a goal, a discipline to writing and sending five letters a week, one per work week day. Those five letters were beyond the ongoing business that needed constant attention. This came to mind the first few days of September as I considered writing this BLOG. Cleaning my email Inbox and Sent messages files is vital to work clean.
I try to keep the Box as current as possible. It serves as my TO DO LIST almost. If it is in the Inbox it keeps my attention. With the volume of my communications it is almost impossible to keep it current.
I recall a time in our early married life I worked one Christmas time at the local post office sorting mail. It was during my break from college at the main office in San Luis Obispo, California. My assignment was to sort piles and piles of incoming mail to the surrounding cities. Piles and piles of mail were placed below my feet under the slots for the cities. I would grab a bunch and place them in the alphabetically organized slots. It was almost impossible to get all of the stack below me clean. New batches arrived constantly.
You have seen something like this graphic on your email system. This is one of my accounts that uses the iCloud and has Inbox, Drafts, Sent, Junk, Trash and Archive where files are listed.
Since January 1st this year I have sent more than 1,300 messages in the accounts that go to this inbox. These are in addition to our ministry account. It is in addition to Constant Contact mailings and other automated messages.
Since January 1st this year I have sent more than 1,300 messages in the accounts that go to this inbox. These are in addition to our ministry account. It is in addition to Constant Contact mailings and other automated messages.
Social Media is the title of this months BLOG and our email communications are more and more important in our daily lives. Seeking wisdom will guide us through the myriad of communications before us.
Here is a passage from the Bible to guide us. "But if any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all generously and without reproach, and it will be given to him." James 1:5 NASB
If you are struggling with a message that needs to be sent, ask God for wisdom. The verse above is a promise.
Just moments ago I asked a friend about a health issue she is dealing with. Her immediate response what to ask me to pray. She knew my relationship with God was much better than hers. She said so. It reflects my local testimony of my faith in the God we serve and more importantly reflects her knowing she needs prayer.
Let your friends know you pray. It opens doors like it did today for me. I will pray for her and it gives me a chance to followup and ask her, not just if my prayer worked but if she enjoyed comfort knowing a friend was praying for her.
Here is a passage from the Bible to guide us. "But if any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all generously and without reproach, and it will be given to him." James 1:5 NASB
If you are struggling with a message that needs to be sent, ask God for wisdom. The verse above is a promise.
Just moments ago I asked a friend about a health issue she is dealing with. Her immediate response what to ask me to pray. She knew my relationship with God was much better than hers. She said so. It reflects my local testimony of my faith in the God we serve and more importantly reflects her knowing she needs prayer.
Let your friends know you pray. It opens doors like it did today for me. I will pray for her and it gives me a chance to followup and ask her, not just if my prayer worked but if she enjoyed comfort knowing a friend was praying for her.
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Heaven Bound Calling for our family
This is an interesting season for our family, actually our families. Both Sharon’s brother and my brother died. They are both in glory having fulfilled their HOPE as shared in Hebrews 11:1
Faith in Action
Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see.
We don’t see heaven but we know about it. It is the realm where Jesus and Father God dwell and they desire that we join them for eternity; and it is our choice if we want to be there. Both brothers are there, they just got there before we did. Our Pastor, Tate Crenshaw said, “your brother is in a better place and that is a wonderful hope and promise yet we sorrow here on earth.”
Faith in Action
Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see.
We don’t see heaven but we know about it. It is the realm where Jesus and Father God dwell and they desire that we join them for eternity; and it is our choice if we want to be there. Both brothers are there, they just got there before we did. Our Pastor, Tate Crenshaw said, “your brother is in a better place and that is a wonderful hope and promise yet we sorrow here on earth.”
Sharon's brother Charles Duane Smith and mine Charles William Kealy, Jr. are in that better place, heaven with Jesus.
Rev. Charles William Kealy, Jr.
During these two weeks as “celebrations of life” are held for them, another family members’ life was remembered. Tim’s wife Allison’s father Curt Curtis’ “celebration of life” was held in Colorado Springs, Colorado where they live. Short time-frame scheduling for these services did not allow to gather as families as we desire but as live streaming technology allows we are able to be in the room vicariously as it were.
Sharon’s brother simply did not wake up one morning. My brother suffered tremendously for the past two years. It causes me to consider where he is and a song comes to mind. Son Tim toured the USA for two years with the gospel singing group and band TRUTH and became a dear friend with recording artist, song writer, concert performer extraordinaire Russ Lee.
He sings a song written for the band leader’s brother-in-law following his death. A death preceded by pain and suffering. Back on Russ' 25 year of ministry celebration we lived in Singapore and we hosted him and wife Mary for an Asian gospel tour. That was great. In Malaysia in concert he was on a roll preaching and stated, "I am a preacher who sings" and he does both with excellence. His text was Judges 3:31 about Shamgar and I remember it well to this day. It's one of my favorite Bible stories.
Gospel singer Russ Lee recorded and performed in concert IF YOU COULD SEE ME NOW.
Sharon’s brother simply did not wake up one morning. My brother suffered tremendously for the past two years. It causes me to consider where he is and a song comes to mind. Son Tim toured the USA for two years with the gospel singing group and band TRUTH and became a dear friend with recording artist, song writer, concert performer extraordinaire Russ Lee.
He sings a song written for the band leader’s brother-in-law following his death. A death preceded by pain and suffering. Back on Russ' 25 year of ministry celebration we lived in Singapore and we hosted him and wife Mary for an Asian gospel tour. That was great. In Malaysia in concert he was on a roll preaching and stated, "I am a preacher who sings" and he does both with excellence. His text was Judges 3:31 about Shamgar and I remember it well to this day. It's one of my favorite Bible stories.
Gospel singer Russ Lee recorded and performed in concert IF YOU COULD SEE ME NOW.
Tim and Allison / Russ and Mary Lee at 50th reunion
I shared this song as an encouragement at my brothers celebration of life. No, I did not sing it, I read it. Whew!
Our prayers have all been answered I finally arrived, the healing that has been delayed has now been realized - no ones in a hurry there’s no schedule to keep - we’re all enjoying Jesus just sitting at his feet.
If you could see me now I am walking streets of gold.
If you could see me now I’m standing tall and whole.
If you could see me now you’d know I’ve seen his face.
If you could see me now you’d know the pains erased - you wouldn’t want me to ever leave this place - if you could only see me now.
My light and temporary trials worked out for my good, to know it brought Him glory - when I miss understood - and though we’ve had our sorrows they could never compare what Jesus has in store for us no language can share.
If you could see me now I am walking streets of gold
If you could see me now I’m standing tall and whole.
If you could see me now you’d know I’d seen his face.
If you could see me now you’d know the pains erased, you wouldn’t want me to ever leave this place if you could only see me now.
I opened with a bit of family history:
Eulogy is the tribute to my younger brother. This is not something you plan for over the years nor something you would put on your resume.
I love my brothers and am honored to pay tribute to Rev. Charles William Kealy, Jr. born September 10, 1945 - graduated to heaven July 20, 2022. He was the son of Charles William Kealy, Sr. and Edythe Lucille Archer Kealy who met and were married at church in San Bernardino, California as young adults in 1940.
Church was and continued to be the center of our family life.
In closing Chuck would want me to share with you he is in heaven with God. Heaven is the realm where God dwells and he wants you to be there too - He made that choice - it’s your choice to be there too . . for eternity.
Ephesians 2:8 records:
“For by grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God; not as a result of works that no one should boast.”
Our prayers have all been answered I finally arrived, the healing that has been delayed has now been realized - no ones in a hurry there’s no schedule to keep - we’re all enjoying Jesus just sitting at his feet.
If you could see me now I am walking streets of gold.
If you could see me now I’m standing tall and whole.
If you could see me now you’d know I’ve seen his face.
If you could see me now you’d know the pains erased - you wouldn’t want me to ever leave this place - if you could only see me now.
My light and temporary trials worked out for my good, to know it brought Him glory - when I miss understood - and though we’ve had our sorrows they could never compare what Jesus has in store for us no language can share.
If you could see me now I am walking streets of gold
If you could see me now I’m standing tall and whole.
If you could see me now you’d know I’d seen his face.
If you could see me now you’d know the pains erased, you wouldn’t want me to ever leave this place if you could only see me now.
I opened with a bit of family history:
Eulogy is the tribute to my younger brother. This is not something you plan for over the years nor something you would put on your resume.
I love my brothers and am honored to pay tribute to Rev. Charles William Kealy, Jr. born September 10, 1945 - graduated to heaven July 20, 2022. He was the son of Charles William Kealy, Sr. and Edythe Lucille Archer Kealy who met and were married at church in San Bernardino, California as young adults in 1940.
Church was and continued to be the center of our family life.
In closing Chuck would want me to share with you he is in heaven with God. Heaven is the realm where God dwells and he wants you to be there too - He made that choice - it’s your choice to be there too . . for eternity.
Ephesians 2:8 records:
“For by grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God; not as a result of works that no one should boast.”
We are informed in God's word his promise ~ Heaven is a glorious place. It is my desire to see you there and enjoy eternity together.
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FRESH WATER makes a vital difference
For two years partner missionary Theovision International held weekly Bible Studies in Ahwerease Fum, a remote village in Ghana, West Africa. Many in the village claimed Jesus as their Savior and spiritual needs were met for the Bible Listening Group that is known as the Word for All program.
Physical needs were identified and a fresh water well was the solution to ongoing sickness, especially with the children. David and Sharon Kealy of Reaching People far from God visited the village because a donor had provided the money for a fresh water well. A few months later a well was completed by the village chief and David and Sharon were there for the dedication representing the donor.
The interesting story about that visit was a new bridge across a stream had been poured just prior to the visit and the road, actually a wide dirt path, was closed and we were told we could not go. We remembered the distance and told we would really like to be there and we would walk from where we could not cross the stream. They said oh, that is too far. In reality it was only a few kilometers and of course we could walk and they were amazed. They were so kind after thinking we would attend only if by car the whole way to the village.
Physical needs were identified and a fresh water well was the solution to ongoing sickness, especially with the children. David and Sharon Kealy of Reaching People far from God visited the village because a donor had provided the money for a fresh water well. A few months later a well was completed by the village chief and David and Sharon were there for the dedication representing the donor.
The interesting story about that visit was a new bridge across a stream had been poured just prior to the visit and the road, actually a wide dirt path, was closed and we were told we could not go. We remembered the distance and told we would really like to be there and we would walk from where we could not cross the stream. They said oh, that is too far. In reality it was only a few kilometers and of course we could walk and they were amazed. They were so kind after thinking we would attend only if by car the whole way to the village.
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GENEROSITY AND JOY
Sharon and I start each day at breakfast together reading a devotional from OUR DAILY BREAD Ministries. It is a quarterly publication you might want to consider. You can obtain it by going to ourdailybread.org. Here is one we enjoyed, Wednesday June 8, 2022
“Researchers tell us there’s a link between generosity and joy: those who give their money and time to others are happier than those who don’t. This has led one psychologist to conclude, “Let’s stop thinking about giving as a moral obligation, and start thinking of it as a source of pleasure.”
While giving can make us happy, I question whether happiness should be the goal. If we’re only generous to people or causes that make us feel good, what about the more difficult or mundane needs requiring our support?
Scripture links generosity with joy too, but on a different basis. After giving his own wealth toward building the temple, King David invited the Israelites to also donate (1 Chronicles 29:1-5). The people responded generously, giving gold, silver, and precious stones joyously. But notice what their joy was over: “The people rejoiced at the willing response of their leaders, for they had given freely and wholeheartedly to meet a need” (Verse 9). Joy often follows.
As missionaries know, it can be easier to raise funds for evangelism than for administration because believers in Jesus like the feeling of funding frontline work. Let’s be generous toward the needs, as well. After all, Jesus freely gave himself to meet our needs (2 Corinthians 8:9).
NOTE: Used without permission.
“Researchers tell us there’s a link between generosity and joy: those who give their money and time to others are happier than those who don’t. This has led one psychologist to conclude, “Let’s stop thinking about giving as a moral obligation, and start thinking of it as a source of pleasure.”
While giving can make us happy, I question whether happiness should be the goal. If we’re only generous to people or causes that make us feel good, what about the more difficult or mundane needs requiring our support?
Scripture links generosity with joy too, but on a different basis. After giving his own wealth toward building the temple, King David invited the Israelites to also donate (1 Chronicles 29:1-5). The people responded generously, giving gold, silver, and precious stones joyously. But notice what their joy was over: “The people rejoiced at the willing response of their leaders, for they had given freely and wholeheartedly to meet a need” (Verse 9). Joy often follows.
As missionaries know, it can be easier to raise funds for evangelism than for administration because believers in Jesus like the feeling of funding frontline work. Let’s be generous toward the needs, as well. After all, Jesus freely gave himself to meet our needs (2 Corinthians 8:9).
NOTE: Used without permission.
HEART DEPOSIT:
Why do you think generosity and joy are connected?
What “unexciting need” could benefit from your generous giving?
RELATED VERSE:
“Bring in the whole tithe into the storehouse, so that there may be food in My house, and test Me now in this,” says the LORD of hosts, “if I will not open for you the windows of heaven, and pour out for you a blessing until there is no more need”. Malachi 3:10 NASB
Why do you think generosity and joy are connected?
What “unexciting need” could benefit from your generous giving?
RELATED VERSE:
“Bring in the whole tithe into the storehouse, so that there may be food in My house, and test Me now in this,” says the LORD of hosts, “if I will not open for you the windows of heaven, and pour out for you a blessing until there is no more need”. Malachi 3:10 NASB
