A Giver // Matthew 6:3

Today’s verse is a great reminder during this time of year when there is a lot of emphasis placed on giving to loved ones and strangers alike. Giving and generosity is a central tenet in the Christian faith because of God’s giving nature. We are also called to be givers. Jesus cautioned people against making a performance out of giving. He indicated that those who make their giving a show for the sake of impressing others will get their reward when they’re noticed. This is why Jesus encouraged us to keep our giving a secret to the point where one hand would not even know what the other hand is doing. Yes, there is hyperbole there, but the heart of the lesson is unmistakable. Don’t make your giving a show, because when you do, being recognize is the best reward you’ll get. Verse 4 goes on to say, “Give your gifts in private, and your Father, who sees everything, will reward you.” That’s the reward I think we all hope to get — pride of God the Father. Not because of who we are, but how we reflect who He is…generous, sacrificial, kind…a giver.