Friday, June 19, 2026

Scripture

“During a severe ordeal of affliction, their abundant joy and their extreme poverty have overflowed in a wealth of generosity on their part.” 2 Corinthians 8:2

Reflections

Are you an inspiration to others?

We read in 2 Corinthians about how the believers in Macedonia were experiencing extreme poverty.  Yet, even with their extreme poverty, they shared what they could.  They weren’t thinking about just themselves.  They were as concerned for their brothers and sisters as they were for themselves.  That’s the teaching of our Lord.  “Love your neighbor as yourself.”

The believers in Corinth were not experiencing hardship.  Nonetheless, when they heard about the example of the believers in Macedonia sharing out of their poverty, they were inspired to be generous as well.  “If those in Macedonia can be generous, certainly we can be as well.”

It is easy to forget the impact of our lives in Christ.  We may not see ourselves as being particularly wealthy.  Still, when the Spirit of Jesus Christ grabs hold of us, we become motivated to be generous.  We share what we can, be it our time or talents or possessions.  It’s a joy. 

This is what followers of Jesus Christ do.  We give of ourselves.  It comes naturally.  It becomes contagious.  Generosity begets generosity.

Prayer

Lord God, thank you for your example of giving without holding back.  Fill me with your Spirit that I might give of myself too.  In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Full Reading: 2 Corinthians 8:1-7