“Grace-oriented generosity is the overflow of a liberated heart…Whether Macedonian or Corinthian, American or Canadian, Asian or Australian, the challenge is the same: first and foremost, we are to give ourselves to the Lord. When we do, our treasure will follow the leading of the heart…what is it that makes all this so addictive? … You can’t help but be generous when grace consumes you.”
Charles R. Swindoll in The Owner’s Manual for Christians: The Essential Guide for a God-Honoring Life (Nashville: Thomas Nelson, 2009) 207-209.
One of my students back in Seoul talked about how “addictive” generosity becomes when rightly framed in light of God’s grace through the Scriptures. We can’t help but become generous when we consider the grace extended to us in Jesus. Fear often slows us down though. If you are worried about “running out” then perhaps take some time to reflect on God’s grace today. That’s what I am going to do on a long hike.
By the time you are reading this I will have headed out on a deep trek into the Gila National Forest in New Mexico with my son, Sammy, to find and video the Gila Trout, currently classified as “threatened” on the endangered species list. Of course we will practice catch and release fly fishing. No trout will be harmed in the making of this video.
Should God grant us the privilege of catching a glimpse of this rare copper-colored trout, we will enjoy and freely share our experience with the world on Sammy’s website where you can enjoy other videos of rare and beautiful fish. Just like enjoying God’s creation can be addictive, as we reflect on God’s grace, we realize it changes everything, and brings joy and meaning to all of life!