For I testify that they gave as much as they were able, and even beyond their ability. Entirely on their own, they urgently pleaded with us for the privilege of sharing in this service to the Lord’s people. And they exceeded our expectations: They gave themselves...
“My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me.” (John 10:27 NIV) Sometimes the voices overwhelm us, voices calling for us to buy this or do this; voices calling for us to be fearful or angry; voices reminding us of our failings and sins; voices telling...
“But now as for what is inside you—be generous to the poor, and everything will be clean for you.” (Luke 11:41 NIV) Jesus had already had a busy day. He’d performed an exorcism and spent time teaching. While he’d been speaking, a Pharisee had invited him to eat...
The angel of the Lord called to Abraham from heaven a second time and said, “I swear by myself, declares the Lord, that because you have done this and have not withheld your son, your only son, I will surely bless you and make your descendants as numerous as the stars...
Then Jesus said to them, “Watch out! Guard yourself against all kinds of greed. After all, one’s life isn’t determined by one’s possessions, even when someone is very wealthy.” Then he told them a parable: “A certain rich man’s land produced a bountiful crop. He said...
One of his disciples, Andrew, Simon Peter’s brother, said to him, “There is a boy here who has five barley loaves and two fish. But what are they among so many people?” (John 6:8-9 NRSV) It is likely the little boy who gave up his five loaves and two fish never forgot...
