Preparing to go to Haiti to help at an orphanage in Port-au-Prince, we have been raising funds for our trip and gathering needed items to give to the orphanage. Some people have been overwhelmingly generous, presenting checks of large amounts. Others have given smaller amounts, and some have given contributions of items.
It is easy to be impressed by the big numbers, but every amount is a good amount because it is being given in kindness. All the gifts, large and small, are given with an attitude of sacrifice.
In his second letter to the church at Corinth, Paul tells them of the giving attitude of the church in Macedonia (2 Corinthians 8:1-5). Now he has advice for Corinth. What two things did the church do in the past? What should they do now? Why?
This week we are looking at another aspect of the fruit of the Spirit – kindness. The Greek word is chrestotes (cray-STO-tays) and carries with it the meaning of goodness expressed in sweetness and mellowness. It implies a very gentle and free giving, giving which expects nothing and wants nothing in return. It is a giving that wants only what is best for the one who receives.
Many people are willing to give and share, to support others and help out. But often that giving is done with an expectation of some sort of reward. This is NOT chrestotes.
Some people do not give because they feel that what they have to offer is not good enough or sufficient. This is NOT chrestotes.
Those who have helped support the mission effort of our church have displayed chrestotes. The gifts are given in every amount and in many forms. The gifts are given with the full intention of helping others in need and expecting absolutely nothing in return.
As Paul has pointed out, the amount is not what is important. The attitude and intention is important. He reminds those in Corinth that not only were they first to give in the past, they were the first who WANTED to give. He points out that “if the willingness is there, the gift is acceptable.”
As we examine our own attitude of chrestotes, of kindness, we must look to our motivation and willingness to give – whether that is money, service, prayer or attention. To express kindness we must give with a willing attitude, not concerned with the amount. We must give freely, not expecting reward.
Finally, the chrestotes must be given – the intention and attitude must be followed with the act of giving. This is chrestotes.
DAILY CHALLENGE: What is your attitude in offering kindness? Is it reluctant because of what you are offering? Does it expect recognition, or is it given with the best of intentions?
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