This time of year with all the exchanging of gifts that goes on, an expression which often arises is, “It’s the thought that counts.” That “thought” could be that much thought had been put into determining what was going to be given. That “thought” might be that there was a desire to give something. That “thought” might also be simply that the one to whom the gift was given was thought of. With these thoughts in mind, perhaps we might say the greatest gift is what is represented by the “thought” behind it. Though we ought to guard against any misguided judgment we might have regarding the heart of any giver, we do need to give due consideration to the intent of our own heart as there is One Who knows the heart of every giver.
Consider where Jesus drew the attention where we read. . .
“(1) Jesus looked up and saw the rich putting their gifts into the offering box, (2) and he saw a poor widow put in two small copper coins. (3) And he said, “Truly, I tell you, this poor widow has put in more than all of them. (4) For they all contributed out of their abundance, but she out of her poverty put in all she had to live on.”” (Luke 21:1-4 ESV)
What Jesus noted was a contrast between the sizes of the gifts and the selflessness of one of the givers. Though the much given could do much, the smaller gift meant much more! Not only did it reflect a generosity out of poverty (consider also the spirit noted in 2 Corinthians 8:1-5), it also revealed this widow’s great trust in the future provision of God. Therefore, this woman’s gift reflected more in many respects as it was not from a bulging money bag, but a bulging heart that she gave.
Let us continue to live mindful of how with most everything in life lived to the glory of God, it is the motivation beginning in the heart that is of the greatest significance. It is not about merely counting the amount from which we give (as that varies among all of us), but rather the attitude of the heart behind our giving that counts! Therefore, may our thoughts rest on how much we have been blessed by God and so be compelled to give from a grateful heart seeking to glorify Him while blessing others!
Have a great day DULY CONSIDERING THE HEART OF LIFE’S MATTERS!
Carl
