The Paradox of Giving

Doing illegal thing while driving a car

An Indy policeman giving so much of himself for others

In Acts 20:35, Apostle Paul wrote – “In everything I did, I showed you that by this kind of hard work we must help the weak, remembering the words the Lord Jesus himself said: ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’ ”

Many things had transpired in the past few days:

  • 4 food pantries
  • 4 Kindness Days
  • Ride along with IMPD Police Officer at one of the most dangerous neighborhoods in Indy
    • I’ve seen people put in jail, smoking marijuana while driving, small children in a car without car seats, theft, domestic violence, hunger, homelessness, etc.
  • I have shared MORE DETAILS here

Just in 10 days of seeing the hurts and the needs surrounding us, the verse above spoke to me in a deeper level. I thought of asking you rhetorical questions. Feel free to make Comments on this Blog as well.

  • Which one would you rather be:
    • a person who has the ability to donate food and time or a person who rely on others for the next meal?
    • a legally blind person living by yourself or a person who has good sets of eyes and able to help a blind person?
    • a person who can help someone to do strenuous physical activities or someone who is hindered physically?
    • a person who give his/her time, talent & treasure because God had graced you or a person with different circumstances who receives from you?

Keep in mind that it could be reversed. For example, by helping those who are “weak”, you realized you are strong. By giving of yourself to others without expecting anything in return, you suddenly receive blessings in unexpected ways.

I’m actually writing this to remind myself of the paradox of giving. Sometimes, I question myself, “Why am I doing all these?” It’s easy for us complain and make excuses rather than see the blessings in disguise. And, in many instances, transcendence happens in the act of giving one’s self.

In the next few weeks, ask yourself:

  • “Who can I bless today?”
  • “Where is God calling me to gather resources for others?”
  • “How can I see the blessing in disguise?”

God bless you!

Merlin

Merlin GonzalesThe Paradox of Giving

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