So very much!

Wednesday, December 3, 2014 (6:29 a.m.)

Most Holy, Blessed God,

It's cold and wet and I love You. SO much. So very much! Mm. Yes. I look outside. Consider all You do for us. Draw the blanket a little tighter around my shoulders. And ask You... what would You have of me today?

I get to turn to Paul's second letter to the church at Corinth. Here he is explaining new life in Christ and his authority to preach. And again I am amazed.

Following the phrase “so very much” led me straight to 2 Corinthians 9:14, Contemporary English Version. Paul was reminding the Corinthians of their own enthusiastic offer to help meet the needs of other believers (v. 2). He went on to explain the many benefits of giving.

Blessed Father, You know better than any the reluctance I have developed toward giving and sharing. I believe Your promises. I become excited [agog] as I read Your Truth. How I ask that You would put Your Truth in action through me.

Beginning with verse 13 and continuing through the chapter's end in the New Living Translation, Father I ask You to continue shaving and shaping me into becoming a generous giver. My heart, soul and mind agree with Your teachings. My actions? Not so much!

“You will be glorifying God through your generous gifts. For your generosity to them (the Christians in Jerusalem) will prove that you are obedient to the Good News of Christ. And they will pray for you with deep affection because of the wonderful grace of God shown through you.”

I pause here to insert the phrasing of the CEV, “...because God used you to bless them so very much.” Holy Father, I want my life to represent this Truth.

Now, for the big finish. Verse 15, “Thank God for His Son – a gift too wonderful for words!”

In this hectic, nonstop season of gift giving, let us truly take the time to remember that Your Son is absolutely THE “Gift too wonderful for words!”

Thank You Father. Use me well this day. I love You. So very much! Amen.

(356 words ~ 7:53 a.m.)