What have you given?

In his inaugural address, President John F. Kennedy said, "And so my fellow Americans, ask not what your country can do for you - ask what you can do for your country."  How the climate of America has changed!  Modern culture is saturated with seeking the most benefits with the least cost.  Between social programs, government grants, welfare, and medical insurance, there are many potential benefits of living in America.  But when is the last time I asked, "What can I do for my country?"  Unfortunately if I even tried to ask I would likely be directed to an 800 number with an automated voice response.  Since the days of President Kennedy, the implications of "country" in America has become synonymous with "government."  Country is more than government, just like church is more than a building.

After dinner, our family typically reads a chapter from the Bible.  Tonight we read this in 1 Chron. 16:28-29:  "Give to the Lord, O families of the peoples, give to the Lord glory and strength. [29] Give to the Lord the glory due His name; bring an offering, and come before Him.  Oh, worship the Lord in the beauty of holiness!"  The repetition of the word "give" stood out to me.  It could also be inferred that bringing an offering is a gift, as well as the gift of worship.  It is fitting we should give unto God, for He has freely given unto us all things.  In light of Kennedy's quote, it could be rephrased:  "Ask not what God can give to you - ask what you can give unto God."

If we are willing to ask this question, God is ready to answer.  Instead of an automated response, we will receive a personal answer that will be challenging, personal, or even painful.  Few are as honorable as King David, who refused to offer to God what cost him nothing.  I think it wise to ask ourselves if there is anything we will not give to God.  If we are called to give all to God it is what we refuse to give which must be dealt with.  God is a giving, generous God.  Our prayers can mimic the two daughters of the leech mentioned in Proverbs 30:15:  Give and Give!  Instead of our lives being marked by greed, God can empower us to be gracious givers.  Let us give Him our all.