Freely Give

Heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse those who have leprosy, drive out demons. Freely you have received; freely give. (Matthew 10:8) 

Thoughts: Jesus was sending out his disciples (the 12) to witness to the kingdom's coming.  He asked them to do amazing things because they were to give what they have received.  The context for the great mini-verse "freely you have received, therefore freely give" is missions.  God gives us gifts and things so we may share them with others.  We do not hide our talents in the ground or put our light under a bushel basket.  Rather- we open our hand, share our talents, and let our light shine.  All we have is a gift from God.  We did not earn or deserve this.  Most of the gifts we have today were given to us before we were ever born or right at birth- our country, our economy, our parents, our intelligence and ability.  We have received it freely.  We should give without wanting payment or even gratitude.  We give to others expecting nothing in return.  That is how God gives to us.  

Prayer: Lord, thank you for your free gifts.  Help me to give as you give to me.