Releasing Divine Power

2 Corinthians 8:3 (NIV)

For I testify that they gave as much as they were able, and even beyond their ability.

This month, as a church, we’ve been looking at our vision to be Light for the City.  We’ve been exploring God’s call on us as individuals and as a church to go ‘Above and Beyond.’

In Paul’s letter to the Corinthians, he challenges them to excel in giving, highlighting the generosity of the churches in Macedonia. They financially gave beyond what seemed humanly possible or sensible.

I love what the theologian Murphy O’Connor writes about their giving. 'Despite all their own difficulties they did not turn inward; their concern was for others, the one proof of authentic love. It was this that released the divine power into the world.'*

With all that we’ve been through over the last couple of years it would be so easy to turn inwards. To just focus on ourselves. Time for a bit of self-care. But I firmly believe this is a time where, if we would step into radical generosity and commitment to others, we will see a release of God’s divine power into the world. Giving releases the Kingdom of God.

As Miroslav Volf writes, 'When a gift is given, life becomes extraordinary because God’s own gift-giving flows through the giver.' ** When we give, God’s power and love flows and works through us. What an incredible thought! How might your giving and generosity unlock the Kingdom of God here on earth?

Prayer — Lord it can be so hard to give and trust you with our lives. But teach me to be generous in every way. May your divine power flow through me. 

* The New American Commentary: 2 Corinthians (Pg. 366)

** Free of Charge, Giving and forgiving in a culture stripped of grace (Pg. 52)