“And now, brothers, we want you to know about the grace that God has given the Macedonian churches. Out of the most severe trial, their overflowing joy and their extreme poverty welled up in rich generosity. For I testify that they gave as much as they were able, and even beyond their ability. Entirely on their own, they urgently pleaded with us for the privilege of sharing in this service to the saints.” 

2 Corinthians 8:1-4

In the Apostle Paul’s second letter to the early Corinthian church, he is basically bragging about the believers in Macedonia. The Macedonians were experiencing some really difficult and trying times, and were experiencing poverty themselves. Yet despite their hardships and poverty, they refused to let this prevent them from living a lifestyle of generosity. They not only gave sacrificially to those in need, but insisted that they have the opportunity to give to others. Paul says that they “urgently pleaded…for the privilege of sharing in his service to the saints” (v. 4) by sharing their finances. 

I don’t need to remind anyone that we are experiencing strange and unprecedented times. Like the Macedonian church, many in our country are experiencing severe trials and financial hardships. We’ve experienced the COVID-19 pandemic that has taken the lives of 274,000 people (and counting), shut down thousands of businesses, and prevented children from attending schools in-person.  As a nation we’ve seen racial divides, a strained healthcare system, political unrest, and a volatile economy. 

Yet, like the Macedonian church, I’ve seen God’s people today in 2020 respond to these afflictions similarly: with a deep faith demonstrated by sacrificial living and generosity. I’ve seen His people live with extreme benevolence, giving “as much as they were able, and even beyond their ability” (v. 3). I’ve seen business owners whose businesses are facing extreme uncertainty and duress, and yet have made generous “Give Life” gifts at our Celebration of Hope auction, or have lavishly contributed to our Thrivent 50/50/50 matching grant.  And I’ve seen people who are unemployed and whose future is uncertain, who have continued to use their gifts of time, and have continued to engage kids in relationships and serve wherever the needs are. 

I’ve seen God at work through His devoted followers, as they’ve continued to support the ministries of Youth for Christ, as well as other ministries and non-profits. His generous people have continued to further the mission of engaging young people in the lifelong journey of following Jesus Christ–regardless of whether it’s in-person or online. 

As we just celebrated the Thanksgiving holiday, one of the things I’m thankful for is God’s Church. The Church isn’t a building–it’s His people who are devoted to Him. Though schools may be online only, and restaurants, gyms, and movie theaters remain closed–God continues to be open for business, and has used His faithful people to generously and sacrificially advance His mission.  

That’s what I’m thankful for.