God is able to provide you with every blessing in abundance, so that by always having enough of everything, you may share abundantly in every good work.
--- 2 Corinthians 9:8 (NRSV)
THE other day, I delivered groceries to a center for abused women. On the way to the center, I felt good about contributing to such a worthy cause. I gave the groceries to the receptionist. Sitting in the reception area were a mother and her young son. The mother had a haggard, strained look on her face. I didn't make eye contact, and I quickly left.
On my way home, I was ashamed of my actions. Here were the people I wanted to help, yet I didn't offer a friendly smile or a word of encouragement. I began to question my motives for giving. Was I trying to boost my ego? Was giving a way to make myself feel good?
I have learned that sometimes a wide gulf separates the giver from the recipient. To close the gulf, I need to think of and to pray for those my gifts are intended to bless. When I have the opportunity to actually meet the recipients of my gifts, I should acknowledge them. As a follower of Christ, I should radiate love and kindness.
