Imagine opening the front door to find a Super Sweepstakes team with balloons and a big check. Now, imagine that you look right past them, pick up your mail and close the door. Or you decline the check and argue that you’re not ready to handle $10 million. Both responses sound unlikely, right?
This long season of Pentecost is a perfect time to think about the receiving side of stewardship. For most of us, gifts from God don’t come with balloons or wrapped in tongues of fire. So, it makes sense to tune into God’s more subtle packaging. Here are three actions that can help.
1. Claim your talents. The best way to demonstrate that you’re thankful for your God-given talents is to use them.
2. Seize an opportunity. If the opportunity seems like it might be a gift from God, go for it. Trust that God is always with you.
3. Allow others to give. If you or someone you love is in trouble, don’t hide it. Others are ready to help.
Yes, God loves a cheerful giver, and it’s a good bet that God loves a generous receiver, too.
This message is adapted from a June 2014 devotion written by Emma Crossen. Today is the fifth Sunday after Pentecost. Please pray for those attending the Tenth Triennial Convention and Gathering which begins this week.