Shade Tree Wisdom 4/20/08

The morning was brisk, rain-washed air, comfortable with a medium jacket. The rain had stopped. But the pavement was still wet. So it was nice. And the big yellow boxes came rumbling to sweep up their precious cargo right on time. And, I spotted a rabbit browsing on some green. Hardly ever see that around.

This comes two days later than I had planned because I have been slow to sit down and finish it. That is a malady than seems to afflict us all. I remember a fellow student who said he would wait for inspiration when it came time for the class recitation. He stumbled and failed miserably when it was his turn and the prof said, dryly, “Hans, you have been lazy”. OK, I admit to it.

But last Thursday at Senior study we got to talking about giving, and money, and similar topics, and what tithe meant. For Abraham when he met Melchizedek, a priest, after he had rescued Lot, it meant, well, the record says, “Abraham gave him a tenth of everything”. That is, of the loot that came from his battles.

In the New Testament St Paul has much to say about giving. He commends the Macedonians who gave “as much as they were able, even beyond their ability. Entirely on their own”, and then ”they urgently pleaded with us for the privilege of sharing in this service to the saints. And they did not do as we expected, but they gave themselves first to the Lord.” 2 Cor. 8,3-5.

Then, in 2 Corinthians chapter 9, follow that famous line about sowing sparingly, and reaping so, or bountifully, and reaping so, for “God loves a cheerful giver.”

Then comes this word of comfort in verses 10 and 11 in which God promises that He will supply “so that you will be made rich in every way so that you can be generous on every occasion.” Which results in expressions of thanks to God.

Then comes this from St. Paul: 1 Timothy 6:6-11 (KJV) 6 But godliness with contentment is great gain. 7 For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out. 8 And having food and raiment let us be therewith content. 9 But they that will be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and hurtful lusts, which drown men in destruction and perdition. 10 For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows. 11 But thou, O man of God, flee these things; and follow after righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, meekness.

That pretty well puts it all in the proper perspective. Being content with what the Lord gives us. Being satisfied with our basic needs. Being able to tell the difference between need and want. I pray your heart will always be generous in your planning and your giving to whatever needs that fall before you. And may God supply, and bless the work.

GPD 4/20/08