The past few weeks I have had a scripture on my mind. I am continually being reminded of it and it has really having a huge influence on the way I am thinking about life. The scripture is found in Matthew chapter 10. Before I get into what the scripture actually says, let’s take a look at the context. It is right before Jesus sends out his 12 disciples. He is giving them final instructions before they go on their way. He has waited for this moment to empower them and send them on their journeys with the good news that the kingdom of heaven is near. The time is finally here.
He says: “Heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse those who have leprosy, drive out demons. Freely you have received; freely give.” (v. 8)
This has been somewhat of a theme in my life lately. I wake up and go to sleep knowing that Christ has given to me freely, and I am commanded to give to others freely, what I have been so graciously given. While Christ was referring to miracles and things pertaining to the Spirit, I do believe he is calling us to give freely of other things in our lives that we have been given. In my prayers lately I hear Christ speaking to me.
He says:
Freely you’ve received grace, Freely give grace to others
Freely you’ve received forgiveness, Freely forgive others
Freely you’ve received generosity, Freely be generous to others
Freely you’ve received time, Freely give of your time to others
Freely you’ve received talents, Freely give of your talents to others
Freely you’ve received money, Freely give of your money and possessions to others
Too many people in the world (including Christians) are great at receiving, and yet become hoarders with their time, talents, blessings, and even grace itself. In all honesty, this is the reason I am most excited to be going on the World Race. Christ has given me so much, and I want to freely give it to others.
If you have been receiving freely, are you hoarding or are you also giving freely?
