JESUS SPEAKING
And it came to pass, when he drew near to Bethphage and Bethany, at the mountain called Olivet, that he sent two of his disciples, saying, “Go into the village opposite you, where as you enter you will find a colt tied, on which no one has ever sat. Loose it and bring here. And if anyone asks you, ‘Why are you loosing it?’ thus you shall say to him, ‘Because the Lord has need of it.’” So those who were sent went their way and found it just as he had said to them. But as they were loosing the colt, the owners of it said to them, “Why are you loosing the colt?” And they said, “The Lord has need of it.” And they brought him to Jesus (Luke 19: 29 – 35.)
INSPIRED THOUGHTS
Zachariah prophesied that the messiah would humbly arrive. Riding not on a horse or chariot; but rather, on a donkey. Jesus therefore sent out two disciples to procure an animal for his triumphal entry in to Jerusalem. When the men were confronted by the owner, they did as they were instructed; saying, “The Lord has need of it.” In turn, they were permitted to leave. Much has been written about this brief encounter; most commentators highlight the omniscience of God, the wisdom of Christ, and the faithfulness of the disciples. Yet in the midst of these obvious truths, there exists a nameless stranger; a generous individual who recognized that his or her possessions were divine endowments; heavenly gifts that, at any time, could be used to serve God’s purposes.
Every year around the holidays, a Christian organization known as ‘Operation Christmas Child’ begins working with thousands of churches across the country. Congregational members fill shoeboxes full of valuable items and deliver them to their local pastors. The parcels are then transported to a warehouse and sorted by volunteers; packaged, and shipped to impoverished nations around the world. Some givers even include heart felt letters and pictures of themselves. I myself have participated in this endeavor. Seeing millions of Americans respond to God’s call is truly inspiring. By giving of their time and resources, they have effectively revealed the love Jesus Christ to some of the least fortunate souls.
Like the donkey in this scripture, our possessions are not our own; our time, our money, and our resources belong to God. We are stewards of what we have been given. When the Lord calls, we must use our assets to spread the love of Jesus Christ. Be still, and the Holy Spirit will instruct you how, when, and what to give. Through generosity and faithfulness, you will know the joy of the Lord; now, and forevermore.
“Lord Heavenly Father, give us opportunities to use our resources to further the gospel. May we be generous; may we be faithful; and may we never turn away from those in need; serving others with gladness and singleness of heart. We love You Father, we praise You, and we thank You, and we ask and pray all of these things according to Your will, in Jesus Christ’s name, Amen.” God bless all of you.
Jesus Speaks 