Day 23 – A Reason To Be Generous This Christmas
Read
Isaiah 61:1-9, Luke 4:18-21
Jesus came “to proclaim good news to the poor, to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim freedom for the captives.” When Jesus returned to heaven, that work became ours to continue. We give our money and our time because we’re followers of Jesus. No matter our circumstances, we are blessed. Jesus blesses us so that we can bless others.
If we slow down, look around us and truly see people, our eyes will be opened to the strongholds that keep so many captive to sin. As we await Jesus’ second coming, we must remain faithful and fervent in going with compassion to our “neighbors.” Jesus redefined who a neighbor was in the parable of the Good Samaritan. The man who was robbed, beaten and left for dead – his needs were clear. But the people of God – the Priest and Levite – ignored him! Jesus saw our brokenness, looked on with compassion and as Philippians 2 reminds us: gave up His righthand seat with God, to come down and rescue us.
Reflect:
- Who in your circle of friends and family needs some compassion right now?
- What would it look like to step out of your comfort zone and meet that need?