Devotionals by Dr. M. Craig Barnes
"Go and learn what this means, 'I desire mercy, not sacrifice.'"
Some people are givers and others are not. Some spend their whole lives giving away their hearts to the people and things around them. They live full lives precisely because they are so busy giving to their families, colleagues, schools, friends and the mission of the church. The striking thing is that no matter how much money or time they give; it never seems like very much to them. However, for others it is impossible to contribute anything without considering it a great sacrifice. They too will give, but not cheerfully. They are constantly fretting about how much is asked of them. "One more meeting I have to go toÉI can't really afford to give to the church...I just don't have time in my life for any more relationships."
I wonder what it is that makes someone a giver and someone else such a miser with life? My guess is that it has to do with how much they have received. Those who have received love are the best at giving love away. Those who have discovered that God enjoys giving to them out of his mercy are the best at giving mercy to others. But that means that you have to receive mercy before you are going to be merciful. If you can't see the joy in giving to others, the reason may be that you haven't seen what God has given to you.
-- Craig Barnes