It's great to be back with you all in worship this morning. Dionne and I have just returned from an incredible 12-day adventure that led us to Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan—a place neither of us had ever imagined visiting. On this journey, we not only explored new lands but also experienced the power of connection and community that transcends borders and languages. I’d love to share some reflections from our time away and how they tie into our worship theme of growing in generosity.
Exploring the World and Building Community
Our trip started with a few days in Rome before heading to Kyrgyzstan. Rome, with its rich history and breathtaking sites like the Vatican, was a dream. But what stood out to us most was our stay at a British Methodist guesthouse near the Vatican, where we were welcomed into a community of fellow believers.
In Kyrgyzstan, we experienced something even more profound. Though we didn’t share the same language with our hosts, we shared something far more powerful: the love of God and a sense of family. Through shared meals and stories, we experienced the breaking down of barriers. We didn’t speak Russian or Kyrgyz, but in Christ, we were unified, learning the lesson that when we gather around the table, differences melt away, and we see each other as children of God.
Generosity: More Than Money
Over the next few weeks, we’ll be talking about growing in generosity. Often, we think of generosity in terms of money, but it's so much more. Generosity includes giving love, grace, time, and mercy. It's about living with open hands, offering what we have—tangible and intangible—to others.
In 2 Corinthians 9:8-11, Paul describes God’s astonishing generosity and encourages us to live generously in return. God doesn’t just give; He gives so we can give to others, creating a ripple effect of blessing and love. When we grow in generosity, we grow closer to Jesus.
Three Lessons on Generosity
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Generosity Begins with God
As Paul reminded the Corinthians, our generous God gives us everything we need to be generous ourselves. If we see God as judgmental or withholding, we’ll struggle to give. But when we see Him as the radically generous God that He is, we are free to be generous in return. -
Generosity Invites Us Into God’s Work
Generosity allows us to partner with God. Like the women who supported Jesus' ministry in Luke 8, we are invited to give of our resources—whether time, money, or talents. When we step out in faith and give, God changes our hearts and uses our gifts to transform lives. -
Generosity Never Runs Out
Sometimes, we hold back from giving because we feel like we don’t have enough. But God’s abundance is limitless. Generosity never depletes; it multiplies. When we give, God pours out even more blessings, allowing us to continue being a blessing to others.
Final Thoughts
As we continue this journey of growing in generosity, let us be reminded that true generosity is not just a one-time act but a lifestyle. It’s about living with open hearts and hands, always ready to give as we have been given.
Reflection Questions
- What tangible and intangible things have you been holding onto that God is calling you to release in generosity?
- How can you begin to practice living with open hands in your daily life?
Prayer
Heavenly Father,
Thank You for Your extravagant generosity toward us. You have blessed us in countless ways, both seen and unseen. Help us to live with open hands, sharing Your love, grace, and resources with those around us. Transform our hearts to reflect Your generosity so that through us, others may see Your abundant love. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.