So, I know this comes off counter to what we “normally” think, but you know I really believe it. We are so good at giving money and other gifts that take little of our time. I wonder if you might challenge yourself this in this season of Advent. I wonder if you might give in such a way that you receive more than you give.
Advent Conspiracy has really made me think over the last two Decembers.
Shane Claiborne of the Simple Way really made me see my life could be so much more in Irresistible Revolution.
Suzanne and I started being involved with Church in the Woods by coming once a month from January 2007 – June 2007. We really felt led to be there weekly were until February of 2008 and got to know a lot of people who have much less than us. We always walked away feeling like we had received so much love.
Around January of 2008, we met up with some really great people, and started partnering with them making biscuits and us bringing clothing/shoes. We eventually became part of Love Wins Ministries, which is a large part of where we live out this whole “receiving” idea.
Jesus has changed my life so drastically these past few years. I am a little more troubled, yet a lot more joyful knowing that I receive so much during the course of my week. It really is beautiful to see the life God has given and is giving us. In the coming months, as we make another big move, Suzanne and I know God is sending something our way and we receive.
Would you consider…
- Handing the box of food to a family and asking if you could come and eat with them.
- Taking the homeless person out to dinner with you and share a meal.
- Inviting over someone who might not be invited to anyone’s house for Christmas.
- I wonder if you might ask someone to pray for you that you might not consider to have it all together.
- Allowing God to speak to your heart and sit in silence, instead of offering up your prayers.
- Giving gifts that require you to spend time with the other person involved.
- Befriending someone who at the front end, has nothing to benefit you that you can see.

