WORDS OF eNCOURAGEMENT

Saturday, June 20, 2026

 

Scripture

 

“You know the generous act of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, so that by his poverty you might become rich.” 2 Corinthians 8:9

 

Reflections

 

We believe and confess that the entire creation was made through Jesus Christ.  He is King and Lord over all.  It all belongs to him.  If you’re talking about wealth, one cannot be wealthier than that.

 

Yet, when he came to this earth, he didn’t come to indulge in the lifestyles of the rich and famous.  He came to give of himself.  He fed the multitudes.  He proclaimed the good news of the kingdom.  He cared for others.  As we read in Philippians, “He emptied himself, taking the form of a servant.”

 

What is our calling as followers of Jesus?  Some people think that the only way to faithfully follow Jesus is to sell everything we have, sit on the street corner, and beg for food.  But how would unemployment help other people?

 

The way of Jesus is to love our neighbor as we love ourselves.  When our neighbor is in need, we respond as if we were in our neighbor’s shoes.  Those who are blessed with abundance are given the opportunity to make a difference.  That doesn’t mean that we love others and hate ourselves.  It means that we equally love our neighbors as we love ourselves.

 

Prayer

 

Lord God, thank you for your example of selfless giving.  Help me to see this life as an opportunity to be generous and bless others in need.  In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

 

Full Reading: 2 Corinthians 8:8-15