Today's readings are 2 Chronicles 31.1-21 and Philippians 4.1-23.
A recurring theme in today's reading is that of giving. The Israelites under Hezekiah give of their goods and do it so abundantly that Hezekiah orders storerooms to be made to keep it all. The Philippians have been giving to Paul again and again. When God's people give generously there's an unmistakable impact on the world. Throughout history it has been Christians who have formed hospital organizations. It has been Christians who have formed orphanages, feeding programs for the poor and hungry, ways to clothe the needy, all these things our society needs. And how do they do it? By steadfast planned giving and occasional special gifts. A quick look at statistics about charitable contributions in this country says that it's the social and political conservativees, specifically conservative Christians, who tend to do a lot of charitable giving. It's the social and political liberals, with a much smaller concentration of Christians, who are always talking about taking care of the poor.
What can we make of this? God has blessed his people with the resources they need. He has also blessed them with an understanding of human need. Through their ongoing generosity this world is a different place than it would be without them. Maybe the Lord will bless us to make a difference for someone today.
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