National Give Something Away Day // Luke 6:38

Today is National Give Something Away Day, a time when people are called to focus on giving, not getting. There are natural rhythms in our year that direct our focus accordingly, but it’s always prudent to remember that Jesus, not Hallmark, taught us it’s better to give than receive (Acts 20:35). Our verse for the day doesn’t just cause us to think about trinkets and toys, though, but thoughtfulness and grace. Let’s look at today’s verse in context: “Don’t pick on people, jump on their failures, criticize their faults—unless, of course, you want the same treatment. Don’t condemn those who are down; that hardness can boomerang. Be easy on people; you’ll find life a lot easier. Give away your life; you’ll find life given back, but not merely given back—given back with bonus and blessing. Giving, not getting, is the way. Generosity begets generosity.” Who do you know that could use a little hope and help on this National Give Something Away Day? Use your life to be a conduit of God’s loving mercy and grace. Consider how the joy you can share might do more than help make someone’s day, but maybe even change their life! What an awesome way to live into generosity! Let’s do as the founder of the Methodist movement and offer Christ to the word! Let’s do as the founder of the Methodist movement and offer Christ to the word! This brings to mind what Peter said when confronted by a crippled beggar as recorded in Acts 3:6, “I don’t have any silver or gold for you. But I’ll give you what I have. In the name of Jesus Christ the Nazarene, get up and walk!” May our decision to offer Christ be the highlight of this National Give Something Away Day, and every day for that matter.