Write About Now

Yesterday morning at church, the father sitting in front of me handed his three year old son a dollar bill to give during offering time. The boy happily placed the money in the basket as it passed by, then resumed working on the important task of covering his entire bulletin with green crayon scribbles.

While it was a nice moment, I distinctly remember thinking, “Sure, it’s easy to give someone else’s money.” But the truth is, I find it quite difficult to part with cash from Someone Else.

This child doesn’t own anything; he looks to his father for everything and dad always comes through. So if dad shares even more, and directs where it should go, the boy has every reason to follow directions. With no expectations and with complete trust, he can give joyfully.

Although I also own nothing and receive everything from my Father, I feel possessive of the sums He hands me to put in the plate. I, too, have every reason to follow directions, but my sense of entitlement often steals the joy of obeying.

Some squirmy preschoolers can be a distraction during worship services, but I’m grateful for this little person and his quiet example yesterday. I want to give like him–cheerfully, without complaint and eager to get back to my crayons.