Moses spent a lot of time reminding the Israelites about God’s goodness, and their obligation to worship him and him alone. That worship includes giving. Giving out of the abundance that the Lord has given. Giving in proportion to what he has given us (enabled us to earn or receive). Giving because he has given to us and because there are others in need. Probably we most often think of giving to our church, or to a favorite charity. Currently I am delighted to learn daily of a variety of churches, community groups and even individuals who are finding new and meaningful ways to meet the needs of hurting people in their own community as well as those farther away.

Throughout the pages of our Bibles, we find repeated illustrations of God’s concern — not just for the Israelites, his own particular people, but for the Levites (special servants of the temple) for the orphans and the widows — in other words, for those who are in special need. Our love for Jesus is really demonstrated by our love to his children, by the manner in which we serve them. Giving money alone can be a rather “cold” act.

I think that is what Moses (and God) were really saying. Some of that “giving” may be just financial, but much of it probably should also be personal involvement, helping to feed the hungry, building a ramp for better access to a home for a handicapped person, caring for the needy one, sharing our blessings because he has given so much to us. That is part of our worship, part of recognizing just who God is, and part of our daily living as we seek to become more like Christ Jesus.

Lord, help me to truly share your heart with those in need. You have blessed me with so many blessings.

Laura Putnam

Extended Scripture: Deuteronomy 14–15 (NIV)