So the people were

restrained from bringing,

for the material they had

was sufficient to

do all the work,

          and more.

          Exodus 36. 6-7

(Generosity is not

a way of giving,

       but of living.

We miss out

if we think it is

all about stuff--

 a matter of

 how much stuff

 we have or don't have

 or what we do with it--

but our heart condition.

How we love,

what we love,

Whom we love.

It is the quality

   of being kind,

even in unexpected

               places.

Those with

           generous hearts

see need

on so many levels

and respond in

          some way--

to be kind and loving,

to just walk alongside,

and even to take notice.

And to know that

we can't do everything,

but we can do something.

No kindness is insignificant

    in God's kingdom.)

O LORD,

We alone can't solve

the world's problems,

nor fill the gaping holes

           all around us,

but we can

bring Your name into it

and respond with love

to those on our path.

We are not in control

of others

but we can love them.

Help us to know how

    to help in a way

    that does not hurt.

Soften our hearts

to Your work

and to love those

whom You

have placed on our paths

and on our hearts.

Generosity moves

not out of obligation,

but out of love

for You and others.

Generosity may

or may not change

        the circumstances,

but through it,

You always change

             our hearts.

Let Your love show

    through us today.