BIBLE READING: 11
Samuel 23-24
A doctor was working in a remote area of Minnesota
many years ago when a Native American family begged him to come and help their
elderly grandmother who was gravely ill. He went, diagnosed her condition, and
then gave them detailed instructions for her care.
The woman recovered, and a few weeks later the
entire family made the journey to the doctor’s office in town. They
ceremoniously presented him with a 150-year-old pair of moccasins made by a
great-great-grandfather. When the doctor protested because the gift was
cherished and valuable, the head of the clan replied, “You saved my
mother’s life. We insist that you accept these moccasins. We do not express
great appreciation with a cheap gift.”
We see this same principle in 2 Samuel 24. David
was told to offer a sacrifice to God on land owned by Araunah. As king, he
could have taken the piece of land and the animals to make the sacrifice, but
instead he purchased them. Araunah offered to give David what he needed, but
David said he would not “offer burnt offerings to the Lord . . . with that
which costs [him] nothing” (v.24).
By definition, a sacrifice has a cost. So, when you
give to the Lord, give generously. —David C. Egner
What shall I give You, Master?
You have redeemed my soul;
My gift is small but it is my all—
Surrendered to Your control. —Grimes