In Matthew 10, Jesus sends out his twelve disciples and tells them to share that the kingdom of heaven is near and to heal the sick. At the end of his instructions Jesus says, “Freely you have received; freely give.” The disciples were mostly misfits and sinners who were given a second chance. They were given hope, healing, purpose and love. They were given everything that they had. And they were instructed to freely give it to others.

I don’t know about you, but it is easy for me to think that gifts and things are for me. My house is for my comfort. My counselor is for my inner peace. My TV is for my entertainment. My wife is for my companionship. My Savior Jesus is for my eternal security. My money is for my pleasure. It’s all about me. But I think if Jesus was sending me out today, he would remind me that I am blessed to be a blessing and I need to freely give. Give my time, my talent and my treasure. Everything I am and all I have for the sake of his kingdom and in his love.

I am inspired by your partnership and sacrifice to invest in God’s kingdom come in India and Nepal. Because you have freely given your time, your prayers, your friendship, and your resources, there is renewal and rest. There is restoration and redemption. There is healing and transformation. There is hope and love. It is powerful, and I am humbled by your support and investment. Thank you.

Lord, form us into a people who give as freely as we have received. Thank you for all you have done for us, and send us to be a blessing to others. May our lives be an outpouring of your love and peace in this world of unrest. Amen.