They begged us again and again for the gracious privilege of sharing in the gift for the Christians in Jerusalem.
2Corinthians 8:4 NLT
The brethren in Macedonia, should be our model in generous giving to the mission of the Church locally and abroad. Paul was telling the wealthy local church, Corinth how they are more than capable of giving for the Mission. He was encouraging them to do the same as the Macedonian Church. The members of the Church were extremely poor. Because of that Apostle Paul did not obliged them to give for the Church in Jerusalem. However, the poor members of the Church pleaded Paul to accept their monetary gifts. Poverty did not prevent them to give to the Church. How did they do it? For them, giving or contributing to the Mission of the Church is a privilege. They give their gifts to God. They love people and they wanted to help them, though they do not know them. They gave themselves fully to God and to the Church Leadership. They trusted God who is the source of everything and trusted the Apostles who diligently work for the cause of the Kingdom. They gave sacrificially. They were willing and happy in giving instead of receiving. How do you give to the Mission of the Church? How do you give God your offerings? Let us ask God. “God how do you want me to express my love and offerings to you?” God’s reply is; “As often as you feel in your heart and as your heart desires. Look, I sacrificed for you. I gave my life for you. I promise you all the best for you. What do you think I deserve?”
