APRIL 4, Revelation 22:12 

“Wow! That was some earthquake they had in Indonesia!” exclaimed Jess on the way home from church. “I wish I had a thousand dollars! I’d put it in the special offering next week to help those kids that were orphaned.”

Dad smiled. “Well, just because you can’t give a thousand dollars, don’t let it keep you from giving what you can,” he said.

“I don’t have any extra money right now,” said Jess. “I’m saving to buy an iPod and that’s going to take a long time!” She paused, then added, “If I gave to all the needy people in the world, I’d never have any money.”

“ That’s true,” agreed Dad, “but there are times when we should look at special needs compared to all the things we’d like to have. I think this is one of those times. Let’s all think it over and pray about it-you, too, Jess- then make our own decision and give what we feel we should give.”

After church the next Sunday, Dad had a question for Jess. “Would you mind telling us how much you put in the offering today?” asked Dad. “Mom and I have a special reason for asking.”

“I gave two dollars,” said Jess. She sighed. “I know that’s not much, but I still don’t have enough money for my iPod.” Jess was surprised when Dad reached into his pocket, took out four dollar bills, and handed them to her. “ Thanks, Dad!” exclaimed Jess. “What are these for?”

“Well, God promises joy and rewards to those who give, and your mother and I decided we’d follow that example and give you a reward, too,” explained Dad.“We decided to reward you according to the amount of the sacrifice you made and give you back twice as much as you gave.”

“You know, Jess, those words you just used are some we all need to think about,” said Dad. “ The Bible says Christians will be rewarded according to what they have done for God. We can’t begin to imagine the wonderful rewards He has prepared for us.”

Thought: Are you generous in giving to God?

Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank You for today’s lesson. Help me to be generous in my giving to You. In Jesus’ name I pray – Amen.